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In a surprising twist of technological development, Mogadishu, the capital of Somalia, boasts better mobile phone reception than Manchester, a major city in the United Kingdom. This connectivity paradox highlights how necessity and innovation can thrive even in the most challenging circumstances, offering valuable lessons for global telecommunications.
Somalia, a nation that has endured decades of conflict and the absence of a functioning central government since 1991, has managed to build one of Africa’s most resilient telecommunications networks. This achievement is particularly striking when compared to the UK, where rural areas and even parts of urban centers like Manchester continue to struggle with patchy mobile coverage.
The roots of Somalia’s telecommunications success lie in the country’s unique response to adversity. Following the collapse of the Somali state, millions of citizens became reliant on remittances from the diaspora, creating an urgent need for reliable communication networks. In the absence of government oversight, private companies like Hormuud Telecom stepped in to fill the void, building extensive networks without the constraints of bureaucratic red tape.
These companies have since grown into powerful entities, delivering remarkable results. Somalia now boasts some of the cheapest mobile data rates in Africa and ranks seventh globally in affordability. The widespread availability of mobile services has transformed daily life, enabling video calls between rural communities and their diaspora relatives, and facilitating business transactions through mobile money platforms.
In contrast, the UK has faced challenges in expanding its mobile network infrastructure. Regulatory delays, high costs, and uneven investment in rural and urban areas have contributed to the persistence of “not spots” where mobile coverage is unreliable or nonexistent. Despite being a global leader in technology, the UK lags behind in ensuring universal access to high-quality mobile connectivity.
The success of Somalia’s telecom sector is not without its complexities. The relationship between telecom companies and the fledgling Somali federal government has been marked by tension. In January 2024, the National Intelligence and Security Agency raided Hormuud’s offices, demanding access to customer data from their mobile money service. The company refused, citing privacy laws, leading to a standoff that underscored the challenges of operating in a conflict zone.
Nevertheless, Somalia’s telecommunications achievements offer valuable insights for other nations. The rapid development of its mobile network demonstrates the potential of private sector innovation in addressing critical infrastructure gaps. It also highlights the importance of affordability and accessibility in driving widespread adoption of technology.
For Manchester and other parts of the UK struggling with mobile connectivity, Somalia’s example serves as a reminder of the transformative power of necessity-driven innovation. By prioritizing investment in underserved areas and fostering collaboration between public and private sectors, the UK can work towards bridging its digital divide.
As Mogadishu continues to outpace Manchester in mobile connectivity, the story of Somalia’s telecommunications revolution stands as a testament to resilience and ingenuity. It challenges conventional narratives about development and underscores the potential for progress even in the face of adversity.