MOGADISHU — The Director General of Somalia’s National Communications Authority (NCA), Mustafa Yasin Sheikh, has officially launched a specialized initiative designed to provide federal government officials with internationally recognized cybersecurity certifications.
Defending National Digital Infrastructure
The strategic training program aims to comprehensively prepare Information and Communication Technology (ICT) professionals within government institutions to obtain globally recognized credentials. This initiative is heavily focused on enhancing their technical ability to protect sensitive national data and proactively counter the rapidly escalating landscape of cyber threats.
This capacity-building push perfectly complements the NCA’s broader institutional security measures, which include the recent establishment of the Somalia Computer Incident Response Team (SOMCIRT) to serve as a national cybersecurity hub.
At the inauguration ceremony, Director General Mustafa Yasin Sheikh highlighted the strategic value of the program:
“This initiative represents the Authority’s commitment to strengthening Somalia’s digital infrastructure protection, securing national data, and addressing the growing cyber threat landscape. It will also enhance the capabilities of government staff to effectively defend national digital systems and services.”
Curriculum and Implementation Details
The rigorous curriculum features internationally recognized courses and advanced technical certifications. Training sessions will be conducted seamlessly across multiple formats, utilizing online platforms in Mogadishu and in-person instruction in Nairobi, Kenya, running from March 28 through May 8, 2026.
To ensure a high caliber of participants, the NCA has directed government institutions to nominate staff who meet strict professional criteria:
- Possess at least a Bachelor’s Degree in Computer Science, Information Technology (IT), Engineering, or a directly related field.
- Have a minimum of two years of active professional experience.
- Currently serve in active System Administration or Network Administration roles.
To maintain rigorous quality standards and ensure genuine technical progression, only participants who successfully pass the initial course examinations will be permitted to proceed to the advanced certification levels.
International Backing for Digital Growth
The specialized initiative receives vital financial and structural support from the World Bank Group via the SCALED-UP Project. On the ground, the curriculum is actively implemented by the African Advanced Level Telecommunications Institute (AFRALTI).
This collaborative program significantly bolsters Somalia’s ongoing endeavors to develop a highly competent public-sector workforce. It also strongly aligns with recent international agreements signed by the NCA aimed at building a globally compliant, resilient digital ecosystem.
