Thursday December 5, 2024
Minister of State for Communications Ahmed Osman Diriye delivers the opening address at Somalia’s inaugural AI Summit 2024, held at Jazeera Palace Hotel in Mogadishu. The event, themed ‘AI for Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in Post-Conflict Reconstruction,’ brought together policymakers, academics, and tech leaders to discuss AI’s role in driving Somalia’s digital and socio-economic transformation.
Mogadishu (HOL) — Somalia’s inaugural Artificial Intelligence Summit concluded in Mogadishu on Wednesday, positioning the nation to leverage cutting-edge technologies to tackle pressing challenges and drive sustainable development.
Themed “Using Artificial Intelligence for Sustainable Solutions,” Somalia’s first AI summit brought together policymakers, international experts, and technology leaders. Organized by the Ministry of Communications and Technology, Zamzam University of Science and Technology, and the Somali Artificial Intelligence Forum, the event marked a pivotal step in Somalia’s digital transformation.
Minister of State for Communications Ahmed Osman Diriye, who inaugurated the summit, underscored the transformative potential of AI. “Somalia stands at the threshold of a technological revolution,” he said. “AI is not just a tool; it’s a lifeline for our socio-economic development.” He called for cross-sector collaboration to ensure AI benefits all Somalis.
The summit featured discussions on critical issues, including the role of government in advancing AI, Africa’s AI strategy for 2024-2030, and AI’s potential to bolster internet security and revolutionize agriculture in Somalia. Experts highlighted how these technologies could address the country’s unique challenges, such as food insecurity and governance gaps.
Mohammed Mohamud Harbi, President of Zamzam University, announced that the Somali Artificial Intelligence Forum would become an annual event. The initiative seeks to foster ongoing dialogue, monitor technological advancements, and ensure that Somali society remains adaptive in an increasingly digital world, focusing on tackling national priorities like food security and education.
The summit concluded with Somali leaders and experts reaffirming their commitment to innovation and collaboration. By prioritizing AI-driven solutions, Somalia aims to address urgent challenges such as food insecurity and governance gaps, positioning itself as a key player in Africa’s digital transformation.
