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In a significant move to support inclusivity and governance reform, the Somali Council of Ministers has approved the extension of the National Disability Agency Board’s term for an additional four years. The decision was made during the cabinet’s weekly meeting on Thursday, January 23, 2025, in Mogadishu, underscoring the government’s commitment to advancing the rights and welfare of persons with disabilities.
The extension follows a formal request by the Ministry of Women and Human Rights Development, which emphasized the importance of continuity in the agency’s efforts to address the challenges faced by individuals with disabilities. Ambassador Khadija Mohamed Al-Makhzoumi, the Minister of Family, expressed her gratitude to the Council of Ministers for their decision, highlighting the critical role of the National Disability Agency in promoting inclusivity and equality.
“I would like to thank the members of the Council of Ministers, led by Prime Minister Hamza Abdi Barre, for renewing the term of the Board of Directors of the National Disability Agency. This decision reflects our government’s dedication to ensuring that the rights and needs of persons with disabilities are prioritized,” said Minister Al-Makhzoumi.
The National Disability Agency Board, composed of two men and three women—Ali Abdullahi Salad, Mohamed Abdul Jama, Hawa Jama Abdi, Fartun Ali Abdirahman, and Sundus Abdullahi Hussein—has been instrumental in advocating for policies and programs that empower individuals with disabilities. The board’s renewed mandate will enable it to continue its work in addressing systemic barriers, promoting accessibility, and fostering greater inclusion in all aspects of society.
In addition to the extension of the Disability Agency Board’s term, the cabinet also approved two landmark policies aimed at advancing Somalia’s digital transformation: the Inclusive Digital Policy and the National E-Governance Strategy. These initiatives are part of the government’s broader efforts to modernize public services, enhance transparency, and improve efficiency in governance.
The Inclusive Digital Policy seeks to ensure that all citizens, including those with disabilities, have equal access to digital technologies and services. By addressing the digital divide, the policy aims to create opportunities for marginalized groups to participate fully in the digital economy and benefit from technological advancements.
Meanwhile, the National E-Governance Strategy outlines a comprehensive roadmap for digitizing government operations, improving service delivery, and fostering greater citizen engagement. The strategy is expected to streamline administrative processes, reduce bureaucratic inefficiencies, and enhance accountability across public institutions.
Prime Minister Hamza Abdi Barre, who chaired the cabinet meeting, emphasized the importance of these policies in driving Somalia’s progress toward sustainable development. “The approval of the Inclusive Digital Policy and the National E-Governance Strategy marks a significant milestone in our efforts to build a more inclusive and efficient government. These initiatives will not only transform how we deliver services but also ensure that no one is left behind in the digital age,” said the Prime Minister.
The cabinet’s decisions reflect the Somali government’s commitment to addressing the needs of vulnerable populations while simultaneously advancing its governance and technological capabilities. By extending the term of the National Disability Agency Board and adopting forward-looking digital policies, the government is taking concrete steps to create a more inclusive and equitable society.
As Somalia continues to rebuild and strengthen its institutions, the renewed focus on inclusivity and digital transformation signals a promising direction for the country’s future. The collaborative efforts of the government, civil society, and international partners will be crucial in ensuring the successful implementation of these initiatives and achieving lasting positive change.