Somalia has taken a major step toward strengthening its digital defenses with the approval of a new cybersecurity law by parliament. The legislation establishes a comprehensive national governance framework for cybersecurity, creates specialized institutions to respond to cyber threats, and sets obligations for operators of critical infrastructure.
The law, announced by the National Communications Authority (NCA), aims to address growing cyber risks as Somalia expands its digital economy and modernizes government services. It formalizes the responsibilities of the Ministry of Communications, assigns a technical oversight role to the telecom regulator, and details prevention, reporting, and response mechanisms for cyber incidents.
Key provisions include the creation of the Somalia Computer Incident Response Team (SOM-CIRT), a nine-member national cybersecurity committee, and an emergency intervention center. These institutions will coordinate rapid responses to cyber incidents, facilitate information sharing, and strengthen collaboration between public institutions, private sector actors, and international partners.
“The cybersecurity law should play a key role in strengthening digital trust, supporting the growth of the digital economy, and intensifying cooperation across all sectors,” the NCA said in a statement.
The law builds on earlier legislative measures aimed at securing Somalia’s cyberspace. In August 2025, the government approved a draft cybercrime bill, while the Data Protection Act, which came into force in March 2023, established the Data Protection Authority (ADP) to enforce rules governing personal data. Together, these measures provide a legal backbone for digital governance and cyber risk mitigation.
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Somalia’s push for stronger cybersecurity comes in response to a surge in online threats. According to Abdullahi Guled, a consultant to the Ministry of Communications, the country recorded multiple cyber incidents in 2024, including ransomware attacks targeting public institutions and phishing attempts against the financial sector. A notable breach occurred in November 2025, when hackers compromised Somalia’s e-visa platform, exposing the personal data of thousands of users and highlighting vulnerabilities in government digital systems.
International cooperation has also been a focus. In August 2025, Somalia signed a memorandum of understanding with Malaysia, a country regarded as a global benchmark in cybersecurity. The country further strengthened ties with the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) in November 2024, aiming to bolster its capacity to combat online crime and align with global best practices.
Despite progress, Somalia still faces challenges. The country is classified as Tier 4 out of 5 in the International Telecommunication Union’s Global Cybersecurity Index 2024, reflecting “a basic commitment to cybersecurity.” Somalia scored 37.38 out of 100, indicating the need for further development in technical capacity, legal frameworks, and workforce training to achieve greater resilience against cyber threats.
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Experts say the new law is a critical step toward digital trust and economic growth. As Somalia increasingly relies on digital platforms for government services, financial transactions, and commerce, effective cybersecurity frameworks are essential to safeguard citizens’ data and maintain investor confidence.
By establishing SOM-CIRT, the national cybersecurity committee, and an emergency response center, the government aims to reduce the impact of cyber incidents, enhance coordination between stakeholders, and build a culture of preparedness. Authorities also plan to engage in capacity-building programs, train technical personnel, and create public awareness campaigns to strengthen national cybersecurity literacy.
“The legislation signals Somalia’s commitment to creating a secure and resilient digital environment,” said a Ministry of Communications spokesperson. “It lays the groundwork for collaboration with regional and international partners, ensuring that Somalia’s digital transformation proceeds safely and sustainably.”
With this law now in force, Somalia moves closer to modernizing its digital ecosystem, protecting sensitive information, and positioning itself as a proactive player in regional and global cybersecurity efforts.
