Somali President Hassan Sheikh: Immigration and Citizenship Agency Is Central to Securing National Borders

 

October 26, 2025 | Mogadishu, Somalia

The President of the Federal Republic of Somalia, H.E. Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, paid an official visit to the headquarters of the Somali Immigration and Citizenship Agency (ICA) in Mogadishu to assess its ongoing modernization efforts and the vital role it plays in ensuring national security and border protection.

During the visit, President Hassan Sheikh received a comprehensive briefing from the Minister of Internal Security, Hon. Abdullahi Sheikh Ismail Fartaag, and the Director General of the Immigration and Citizenship Agency, Mr. Mustafe Sheikh Ali Dhuhulow. The briefing focused on the agency’s progress in digitizing and decentralizing its services, improving accessibility for citizens, and enhancing operational efficiency across the country.

Addressing the agency’s leadership and staff, the President underscored the pivotal role of the Immigration and Citizenship Agency in maintaining Somalia’s national security and sovereignty. He emphasized that the agency serves as a key pillar in safeguarding the country’s borders, preventing illegal migration, and combating terrorism and human trafficking.

“The Immigration and Citizenship Agency stands at the heart of securing our nation’s borders and ensuring the safety of our citizens,” President Hassan Sheikh said. “Your work directly contributes to the protection of our country from criminal elements, illegal migration, and security threats. How effectively you serve the Somali people and manage the flow of information about those entering our country determines the stability and integrity of our borders.”

The President commended the agency’s progress in modernizing its systems, particularly the successful rollout of the electronic visa (e-Visa) platform, which has simplified visa application and issuance processes for travelers. He also highlighted the implementation of the new PISCES system, a state-of-the-art biometric border management tool that enhances the government’s capacity to identify individuals through fingerprint and facial recognition technology.

These technological advancements, the President noted, are a crucial part of Somalia’s broader national security reform agenda. They not only facilitate legitimate travel and trade but also help detect and deter individuals who pose security risks.

President Hassan Sheikh reiterated his administration’s commitment to supporting the Immigration and Citizenship Agency through continuous investment in technology, capacity building, and institutional reforms. He called on the agency’s staff to uphold professionalism, transparency, and accountability in serving citizens and foreigners alike.

In closing, the President expressed his appreciation for the dedication of the agency’s employees and urged them to remain steadfast in their mission of protecting Somalia’s borders and national identity.

The visit reflects the government’s ongoing efforts to strengthen state institutions and ensure that national security structures are well-equipped to respond to evolving threats while promoting efficient and citizen-centered governance.