Somalia has inaugurated its first Internet Governance Forum (SIGF) in Mogadishu, marking a significant step in the nation's digital transformation efforts. Deputy Prime Minister Salah Ahmed Jama delivered the keynote address, underscoring the importance of collaborative internet governance to harness digital technology for development and reform.
The two-day forum, which began on Thursday, gathers government agencies, universities, private sector leaders, and civil society to discuss the challenges and opportunities of Somalia's expanding digital landscape. Key topics include the regulation of dominant social media platforms like Facebook and TikTok, as well as combating misinformation and cybercrime.
With internet connectivity rapidly increasing across Somalia, the forum aims to create actionable strategies that promote inclusion while addressing privacy and online safety concerns. Experts will explore global best practices in internet governance, tailoring solutions to Somalia's unique context to ensure the internet serves as a tool for empowerment.
The outcomes of this forum are expected to inform policy decisions and strengthen Somalia's position as a regional leader in digital transformation.