Somalia Pushes To Accelerate East Africa Digital Integration Project

GOOBJOOG NEWS | NAIROBI: Somalia is seeking to accelerate implementation of a regional digital integration project aimed at expanding broadband connectivity, improving data flows and linking the country more closely to East Africa’s growing digital economy.

Communications and Technology Minister Mohamed Adan Macallim “Mohamed Soomaali” opened an implementation review meeting for the Eastern Africa Regional Digital Integration Project (EA-RDIP) in Nairobi, bringing together Somali officials, World Bank representatives and digital-sector specialists.

The project is designed to strengthen digital links across the region, with its work spanning broadband infrastructure, digital services, cross-border data flows and the development of a more integrated regional digital market.

The programme comes as the federal government of Somalia seeks to expand digital infrastructure and improve access to online services, while building the regulatory and institutional systems needed to support a growing digital economy.

Speaking at the opening, Minister Mohamed Soomaali acknowledged that implementation had faced delays and difficult stages but said the project was now moving in line with the plans set for it.

He said the government was giving the project greater priority and was prepared to commit time, expertise and resources to ensure Somalia benefits from the opportunities created by regional digital integration.

The meeting brings together officials from the Ministry of Communications and Technology, National Communications Authority, Data Protection Authority and the Project Implementation Unit, as well as representatives from Somalia’s federal member states.

The World Bank, which is supporting the project, also took part in the review, with its representatives highlighting the ministry’s efforts to accelerate implementation.

The focus on implementation reflects a broader shift from planning to delivery, with the project expected to determine how effectively Somalia can expand connectivity and make use of regional digital infrastructure.

If successfully implemented, stronger digital links could make it easier for businesses and public institutions to exchange information across borders, expand access to digital services and connect more Somalis to regional and international markets.