Somali National AI center holds roundtable on shaping Somalia’s AI future

The Somali National Artificial Intelligence Center (SNAIC) at Somali National University (SNU) has convened a roundtable bringing together representatives from universities, technology companies and other institutions to discuss priorities for advancing artificial intelligence in Somalia.

Held under the theme “Shaping Somalia’s AI Future: A National Agenda for AI Centers, Policy, Literacy, Talent and Local Use Cases,” the roundtable focused on strengthening the country’s foundations for AI development and promoting a coordinated national approach.

Discussions centred on five key priorities: establishing dedicated AI centres or units, developing policies to guide the responsible use of AI, expanding AI literacy, developing advanced Somali AI talent, and promoting locally driven AI applications in sectors including health, agriculture, education and business.

Dr. Mohamed Sh. Adam Isak, Director of SNAIC, highlighted the need for investment in advanced AI skills, broader public understanding of the technology and responsible use of artificial intelligence.

“Building Somalia’s AI future requires investment in advanced AI talent, stronger AI literacy and the responsible use of artificial intelligence. We also need institutions to develop solutions that respond to Somalia’s priorities and needs,” he said.

Opening the roundtable, Prof. Fuad Mire Hassan, Deputy Rector for Planning and Development at Somali National University, called for stronger coordination and collaboration among key stakeholders.

“Advancing artificial intelligence in Somalia requires a coordinated effort. Universities, government, the private sector and other institutions each have an important role to play, and stronger collaboration among them will be essential to building the capacity, institutions and solutions Somalia needs for its AI future,” Prof. Fuad said.

Participants also discussed the role of universities in developing advanced AI talent and encouraged universities and businesses to establish dedicated AI centres or units within their institutions.

The roundtable further highlighted the need for a broader AI literacy campaign to help the public understand how to use artificial intelligence appropriately and responsibly. Participants also stressed the importance of institutional policies addressing responsible AI use, data protection, ethics and accountability.

The meeting concluded with recommendations and proposed responsibilities for different stakeholders. These will inform a policy brief to be shared with the Federal Government of Somalia, higher education institutions, organisations and businesses.

SNAIC will coordinate follow-up on the recommendations as stakeholders continue discussions on developing Somalia’s AI capacity and locally relevant applications of the technology.

Mustaqbal