National Communications Authority and Ministry of Communications and Technology Host the Second Somalia National Cybersecurity Forum

Mogadishu, November 20, 2024 – The National Communications Authority (NCA) and the Ministry of Communications and Technology jointly hosted the Second Somalia National Cybersecurity Forum, held over two days in Mogadishu.

This annual forum, which focused on strengthening cybersecurity, brought together stakeholders from government institutions, telecommunications and technology companies, internet service providers (ISPs), banks, and civil society organizations. Discussions centered on fostering meaningful partnerships among government, private sector, and citizens to combat cybercrime and enhance Somalia’s cybersecurity resilience.

The forum was officially opened by the Minister of Communications and Technology, H.E. Mohamed Adan Moalin Ali (Somali), who underscored the progress achieved since last year’s event. He highlighted the submission of new cybersecurity legislation to the Cabinet and Parliament and the development of the National Cybersecurity Strategy and Policy, which aim to establish robust cybersecurity frameworks for Somalia.

The Director-General of the National Communications Authority, Mr. Mustafa Yasin Sheikh, stressed the importance of collaboration between public and private sectors to mitigate risks associated with cyber threats. He commended participants for their valuable insights and contributions to shaping Somalia’s cybersecurity landscape.

A unique highlight of this year’s forum was Somalia’s first-ever cybersecurity tabletop exercises (TTX), which simulated real-world scenarios, including malware infections and ransomware attacks. These exercises provided participants with practical knowledge to effectively address cyber threats.

In his closing remarks, Mr. Mustafa expressed appreciation for the valuable discussions and recommendations shared during the forum. He stated, “I deeply value the critical recommendations and insights presented during this forum. While addressing these issues is essential, maintaining continuous collaboration and dialogue is even more critical to strengthening Somalia’s cybersecurity.”

The forum concluded with a strong commitment to fostering research, policy innovation, and sustainable strategies for enhancing cybersecurity. Insights from the forum are expected to guide future initiatives and establish long-term partnerships across all sectors.

The Second Somalia National Cybersecurity Forum represents a significant step forward in advancing the country’s cybersecurity agenda and building resilience against emerging cyber threats.