Strengthening Digital Governance: EU Supports Somalia’s Defence, Security, and Justice Ministries with ICT Equipment

 

In a significant step towards advancing Somalia’s digital transformation and institutional reform, the European Union (EU) has handed over a range of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) equipment to the Ministries of Defence, Internal Security, and Justice & Constitutional Affairs. The ceremony, organized by the United Nations Office for Project Services (UNOPS), marks another milestone in the ongoing partnership between Somalia and the EU to strengthen governance, transparency, and public service delivery through digital innovation.

The handover event was attended by H.E. Ahmed Moallim Fiqi, Minister of Defence of the Federal Government of Somalia, alongside H.E. Abdullahi Sheikh Ismail, Minister of Internal Security, and H.E. Hassan Moallim, Minister of Justice and Constitutional Affairs. Also present were Ambassador Francesca Di Mauro, the European Union’s Ambassador to Somalia, the UNOPS Country Director, and senior officials from both the United Nations and the Federal Government.

In his remarks, Minister Ahmed Moallim Fiqi expressed deep appreciation to the European Union and UNOPS for their steadfast support to Somalia’s institutional capacity-building efforts. He noted that the new ICT systems form part of the Ministry’s broader reform agenda aimed at enhancing digital operations, promoting transparency, and improving the efficiency of governance structures.

“This handover represents more than just equipment; it is an investment in Somalia’s future — a step toward a modern, transparent, and accountable government,” said Minister Fiqi. “Digital transformation is central to our national development vision, and this support from our partners will help us build institutions that can deliver effectively for our citizens.”

The EU’s contribution underscores its long-standing commitment to supporting peacebuilding, governance, and state-building in Somalia. By equipping key ministries with modern ICT tools, the EU and UNOPS aim to improve data management, strengthen communication systems, and promote inter-ministerial coordination in critical areas such as defence, internal security, and justice.

Ambassador Francesca Di Mauro reaffirmed the EU’s dedication to supporting Somalia’s journey toward stability and modernization. She emphasized that the partnership reflects mutual trust and shared priorities in advancing sustainable governance and the rule of law.

“Our goal is to help Somalia harness technology for good governance, improve service delivery, and empower institutions to perform efficiently,” said Ambassador Di Mauro.

The integration of ICT into public administration plays a pivotal role in fostering accountability and efficiency within government institutions. For Somalia, which continues to rebuild from decades of conflict and institutional fragility, digital governance offers a powerful tool for promoting transparency and citizen trust.

This initiative aligns with the Federal Government’s broader reform programs under Vision 2060, which prioritize innovation, digitalization, and human capital development. The support from the European Union and UNOPS stands as a testament to the strong partnership between Somalia and its international allies in achieving sustainable peace and development.

As Somalia embraces the digital era, this collaboration serves as a beacon of progress — one that bridges technology with governance, and hope with action.