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Capital FM Kenya, NTV Kenya, TUKO.co.ke, News 9 Africa, Kenya Today, Spotlight Magazine and Wisevoter among the platforms covering the announcement.
MOGADISHU, SOMALIA — Ridwan Yusuf Mohamud, Editor-in-Chief and CEO of Somali Magazine, has officially announced the opening of nominations for the 8th Edition of the 100 Most Influential Somali People 2026 and Person of the Year 2026, inviting the public to nominate outstanding Somalis whose achievements and contributions deserve recognition.
The announcement has attracted coverage from regional and international media outlets, highlighting Somali leadership, entrepreneurship and the contributions of Somalis across East Africa and the global diaspora.
Ridwan Yusuf Mohamud Calls on the Public to Nominate Outstanding Somalis
Announcing the opening of nominations, Ridwan Yusuf Mohamud emphasised the importance of recognising Somali individuals whose leadership, achievements and contributions continue to inspire communities and create positive change.
He called on members of the public, businesses, institutions and community organisations to participate in the nomination process by putting forward deserving candidates from different professional backgrounds and sectors.
The public nomination process aims to give communities an opportunity to identify individuals whose accomplishments merit recognition, including those making significant contributions in business, public service, education, sports, media, culture and community development.
The eighth edition continues the initiative’s mission to celebrate Somali excellence and highlight individuals whose work contributes to the advancement and international standing of the Somali community.
Regional and International Media Coverage
Capital FM Kenya reported on the nomination launch, highlighting the role of Somali entrepreneurs in Kenya’s commercial landscape, particularly in Eastleigh, Nairobi.
NTV Kenya featured coverage of the announcement, bringing further attention to the 2026 nomination campaign.
TUKO.co.ke covered the nominations and the contribution of Somali entrepreneurs to business and economic activity in Nairobi.
News 9 Africa reported on the opening of nominations, highlighting the initiative’s recognition of entrepreneurs, influencers and leaders.
Kenya Today also reported on the launch of nominations for the eighth edition, highlighting the initiative’s recognition of Somali achievers and encouraging public participation.
Spotlight Magazine, Minnesota, USA published an announcement encouraging the Somali community to nominate outstanding individuals for the recognitions.
Wisevoter also published online coverage relating to the 2026 nomination initiative.
Recognising Somali Excellence Across Eight Categories
The 2026 edition recognises Somali achievers across eight categories: politics and leadership, business and entrepreneurship, sports, Islamic scholarship, activism, journalism, social influence, and entertainment, including artists, singers and creative projects.
The initiative welcomes nominations from Somalia, Kenya, other East African countries and the global Somali diaspora. It seeks to recognise individuals whose achievements, leadership and contributions have made a positive impact in their professions and communities.
Nominations Close on 20 November 2026
Nominations officially opened on 1 October 2026 and will remain open until 20 November 2026. Members of the public are encouraged to nominate individuals whose achievements and contributions deserve recognition.
- Recognition: 100 Most Influential Somali People 2026
- Special recognition: Person of the Year 2026
- Edition: Eighth
- Nomination deadline: 20 November 2026
- Official nomination portal: Submit your nomination here
The campaign continues its mission to celebrate Somali leadership, recognise outstanding achievements and inspire future generations.
Eight Editions. One Mission. Celebrating Somali Excellence.