Hornpost
Hargeisa – (Hornpost) The President of the Republic of Somaliland, H.E. Abdirahman Mohamed Abdillahi (Cirro), has presented the National ICT Innovation Award 2025 to university students who excelled in the country’s annual technology innovation competition. The event celebrated young innovators whose ideas contribute to advancing digital transformation across Somaliland.
This year’s top prize went to a team from Amoud University, whose innovative project impressed the national jury. Golis University and the University of Hargeisa received the second and third prizes respectively.
President Cirro congratulated the winners and their mentors, describing their success as a “national achievement” and a source of pride for Somaliland.
“Our youth are the most valuable asset this nation possesses,” the President said. “Their creativity and knowledge are the foundation upon which the digital future of Somaliland will be built.”
He underscored that technological innovation plays a vital role in shaping Somaliland’s economic and social progress, noting that the country’s future depends on the capabilities and ideas of its young generation.
“We are determined to make Somaliland a knowledge-based economy — one that uses innovation and ICT to improve public services, business operations, and the daily lives of our citizens,” President Cirro added.
Promoting a Digital Economy:
The President reaffirmed his government’s commitment to investing in youth-led innovation, emphasizing that Somaliland’s digital transition is key to creating jobs, fostering entrepreneurship, and enhancing government efficiency.
He stated that the administration will continue to expand programs that support technology startups, ICT education, and digital infrastructure.
Officials said the winning projects presented creative solutions addressing national challenges in communication, e-governance, and education technology.
National ICT Expo and Summit:
The 7th National ICT Summit and Innovation Competition were organized by the Ministry of Communications and Technology in partnership with leading telecom companies and private sector stakeholders. The annual event serves as a national platform for students, developers, and entrepreneurs to showcase technological creativity.
Attending the ceremony were senior government officials, including the Ministers of Communications and Technology, Presidency, and Energy & Minerals; the Deputy ICT Minister; and the President’s Senior Economic Adviser.
University leaders and academics also delivered remarks. Professor Saleeban Ahmed Guuleed, President of Amoud University, praised the government’s efforts to promote ICT innovation, while Professor Mahmoud Muse Jibril, the university’s ICT Dean, encouraged continued investment in research and technology-driven learning.
Driving Somaliland’s Digital Vision:
Somaliland has in recent years prioritized digital development as part of its national modernization agenda. The government has introduced initiatives in e-governance, digital ID systems, and ICT education, positioning the country as a regional model for homegrown technological innovation in the Horn of Africa.
President Cirro’s administration has pledged to strengthen cooperation between government, academia, and the private sector to create an enabling environment for innovation.
“We will continue to support our youth to become creators, not just consumers, of technology,” the President said, concluding that Somaliland’s future “depends on the power of ideas and innovation.”
Pictures of the event
Prepared by
Hornpost staff Reporter
