Somalia’s Immigration Agency Launches Week-Long Training on Advanced Border Security System

MOGADISHU – The Deputy Director General of Somalia’s Immigration and Citizenship Agency (ICA), Hussein Abdullahi Sheikh, has officially opened a week-long training programme in Mogadishu focused on the advanced PISCES 10 border management system. The initiative is part of ongoing efforts to modernise the country’s immigration services, strengthen border security, and align operations with international standards.

The training aims to enhance the technical capabilities of immigration officers in biometric identification, passenger data management, document verification, and advanced screening techniques. During the opening ceremony, Deputy Director General Sheikh emphasised that modernising immigration management systems is a critical pillar for strengthening national security and protecting the country’s borders. He noted that the training would enhance the knowledge and skills of officers, enabling them to leverage modern technology for travel management and identity verification of individuals crossing borders.

PISCES 10: A Modern Border Management System

The PISCES 10 system is a modern border management solution capable of registering and managing traveller data, inspecting passports, visas, and identity cards, verifying electronic documents (e-Chip), and detecting document alterations. It also enables advanced screening and data analytics.

Furthermore, PISCES 10 has the capability to interface with international systems and databases, including INTERPOL I-24/7, API/PNR, ATS-G, UN goTravel, and IOM MIDAS. This integration enhances screening capabilities, data sharing, and the fight against cross-border crimes. The system uses biometric data and secure database integration to flag individuals with criminal records, prior immigration violations, or potential links to national security threats, empowering immigration officers to quickly verify identities, detect fraudulent documents, and identify dangerous individuals before they pose a threat to the public.

Modernising Somalia’s Immigration Services

The training is part of a broader transformation drive by the ICA to secure Somalia’s borders and enhance service delivery. The agency has been working to introduce new technology and training to enhance efficiency and security, improving the management of immigration and citizenship services.

Central to this modernisation has been the introduction of the PISCES system, a biometric-based technology that captures fingerprints and facial recognition data to strengthen border security. President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud has hailed Somalia’s e-Visa modernisation, which aims to streamline immigration processes and curb identity fraud. The ICA officially launched the country’s first-ever electronic visa (E-VISA) platform, a milestone that enables travelers to apply for visas online.

Strengthening Border Security Cooperation

Somalia has been actively engaging with international partners to bolster its border management capabilities. ICA officials and the U.S. envoy have held talks on enhancing bilateral cooperation in border security management, focusing on strategies to improve immigration control and modernise border infrastructure. Somali Police Chief Osman has emphasised that effective border security is essential to Somalia’s fight against terrorism, smuggling, and irregular migration, reaffirming commitment to building a modern, data-driven border management system.

Way Forward

The week-long training on the PISCES 10 system represents a significant step in Somalia’s efforts to build a secure and digitally integrated immigration system. By equipping officers with advanced skills and modern technology, the ICA aims to improve border security, enhance service delivery, and combat transnational crime more effectively. The successful implementation of these systems will be crucial for Somalia’s long-term stability, security, and development.