Somalia’s Lower House Passes Cybersecurity Bill

GOOBJOOG NEWS|MOGADISHU: The Lower House of the Federal Parliament has officially endorsed a new Cybersecurity Bill aimed at safeguarding the nation’s digital landscape, enhancing the security of information systems, and bolstering overall cybersecurity measures.

This bill outlines a comprehensive framework for cybersecurity management. It specifies the roles of the Ministry of Communications, the technical responsibilities of the National Communications Authority, the duties of operators of critical infrastructure, and the procedures for preventing, reporting, and addressing cybersecurity incidents. Additionally, it establishes the Somalia Computer Incident Response Team (SOM-CIRT) to facilitate these efforts.

Mr. Mustafa Yasin Sheikh, Director General of the National Communications Authority, remarked that this legislative approval marks a significant advancement in creating a unified national cybersecurity strategy, enhancing the country’s readiness to tackle digital security challenges.

State Minister of Communications and Technology, Mr. Ahmed Osman Dirie, expressed gratitude to the Members of Parliament, highlighting that this bill is essential for protecting national cybersecurity, ensuring the welfare of citizens, and aligning Somalia with global standards and practices in cybersecurity.

The Cybersecurity Bill is anticipated to be crucial in fostering digital trust, promoting the growth of the digital economy, and enhancing collaboration among government entities, the private sector, and international partners.