MOGADISHU — Prime Minister Hamza Abdi Barre officially inaugurated the Somalia Computer Incident Response Team (SOMCIRT) today, establishing the nation’s first dedicated National Cyber Security Center. The facility was created to prevent, monitor, and rapidly respond to cyber threats against the nation’s critical telecommunications and digital systems.
Safeguarding the Digital Future
The launch of SOMCIRT significantly enhances Somalia’s digital security framework at a critical time, as the country rapidly expands its digital services and advances national digital transformation initiatives. The center aims to improve the government’s ability to handle cybersecurity emergencies and protect sensitive data held by state agencies and public sector organizations.
Addressing attendees at the inauguration ceremony, Prime Minister Barre emphasized the rising global significance of cybersecurity. He stated that establishing SOMCIRT represents a crucial milestone in safeguarding the nation’s digital infrastructure and fostering public confidence in new digital services, which are vital for national security and economic growth.
Coordination and National Defense
Minister of Communications and Technology Mohamed Hassan Mohamed underscored the necessity of robust cybersecurity measures to protect government institutions and telecommunications infrastructure. The Prime Minister formally recognized the joint contributions of the Ministry and the National Communications Authority (NCA) in building this critical security framework.
Mustafa Yasin Sheikh, Director General of the NCA, stated that the center is the result of comprehensive national consultations and rigorous technical assessments.
Operating under the direct oversight of the National Communications Authority, SOMCIRT will function as the central coordination hub for identifying and responding to cybersecurity incidents nationwide. Officials indicated that the center’s core duties will include facilitating incident reporting, distributing threat alerts, coordinating rapid responses, and promoting crucial cybersecurity awareness among government agencies, the private sector, and international partners.
