For an explanation of how to read this resource, refer to the guide at the end.
AI Regulation
There is no regulation specifically governing AI in the country. However, there have been certain actions in furtherance of AI governance. In December 2024, the country’s first AI summit was hosted by the Ministry of Communications and Technology in collaboration with Zamzam University of Science and Technology.1
Definitions of AI
As the country is yet to establish AI regulations, there is no formal definition of AI.
Core Principles
As the country is yet to establish AI regulations, there is no formal statement of core AI principles.
Public Consultations
Based on publicly available information, we have not found evidence of invitations for public input on AI governance in the country.
Existing Legal Framework
A non-exhaustive list of regulations that might affect AI in the country includes:
- Constitution of Somalia2
- Somalia National Development Plan 2020 to 2024 (NDP-9)3
- National ICT Policy and Strategy 2019-20244
- ICT Regulatory Transformational Strategy and Roadmap for Somalia, dated September 20245
- National IPv6 Transition Strategy for Federal Republic of Somalia, dated March 20246
- National Communication Law, 20177
- Data Protection Act, 2003 (Law No. 005 of 2023)8
Human Rights
The UDHR was adopted by the UN General Assembly on 10 December 1948. Its principles are considered universal and applicable to all UN member states. As a member of the UN, Somalia has committed to upholding the principles of the UDHR. The Constitution of Somalia includes provisions that protect fundamental human rights.9 Article 19 guarantees the right to privacy (inviolability of the home and other dwellings of the person, and protection from entry, search, or surveillance). Other protections include the rights to human dignity (Article 10), equality and non-discrimination (Article 11), life (Article 13), freedom of expression (Article 18), healthcare (Article 27), and education (Article 30). Somalia has ratified several key international human rights instruments, including the ACHPR, ICCPR, and ICESCR. However, the country has not signed or ratified the Malabo Convention.
Regulators
A non-exhaustive list of regulators that might impact AI in the country includes:
- Ministry of Communications and Technology (MOCT)10
- National Communications Authority11
- Data Protection Authority (DPA)12
- Cybersecurity Department, National Communications Authority13
- Somalia Computer Emergency Response Team/Coordination Center (SomCERT/CC)14
- Somali Bureau of Standards15
R&D and Multi-Stakeholder Initiatives
Based on publicly available information, we have not found evidence of significant investments or multi-stakeholder initiatives on AI within the country.
Professional/Industry Associations
A non-exhaustive list of professional or industry associations with a focus on AI in the country includes:
Advisory Bodies and Expert Groups
Based on publicly available information, we have not found evidence of advisory bodies or expert groups dedicated to AI in the country.
Guide
- AI Regulation: The term "regulation", as used in this resource, encompasses measures ranging from binding laws to national AI policies and strategies, government proposals, advisory guidelines, and industry standards that address AI systems and their implications.
- Existing Legal Framework: This section outlines the relevant legal framework, excluding any AI-specific regulations presented in the initial section.
- Human Rights: The following terms have the stated meanings: "ACHPR" means the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights, "ICCPR" means the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, "ICESCR" means the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights, "Malabo Convention" means the African Union Convention on Cyber Security and Personal Data Protection, "UDHR" means the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, and "UN" means the United Nations. Any reference to an “Article” or “Section” of the Constitution is to the version of the Constitution referenced herein.
- Advisory Bodies and Expert Groups: This section excludes legislative and parliamentary committees.
