Mogadishu, (SONNA) – The Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, H.E. Abdisalam Abdi Ali, Minister of State Ali Mohamed Omar, Deputy Minister Isaq Mohamed Mursal, Permanent Secretary Hamsa Adan Xaadow, together with Directors, Ambassadors, Consuls General, Advisors, and all officials of the Ministry, extend their heartfelt condolences to the family, friends, and the Somali people on the passing of Ambassador Sharif Mohamed Omar, who died today, Friday, August 22, 2025, in Doha, Qatar, after a long illness.
Ambassador Sharif Mohamed Omar was among the first Somalis sent abroad for higher education in the early years of statehood. Between 1962 and 1969, he earned two advanced “Laurea” degrees from the University of Rome, equivalent to a Master’s level: one in Statistical and Demographic Sciences, and the other in Political Science.
He joined the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in 1976 as a senior officer in the Department of Economic Affairs. Before that, he served in the Ministry of Commerce and Industry from 1969 to 1976, holding key leadership roles, including Director of Trade Exchange, Import and Export (1973–1976), Director of Trade Statistics (1970–1973), and Acting General Manager of the National Insurance Company (1972–1973).
His diplomatic career spanned over three decades, serving as:
- First Counsellor at the Somali Embassy in Italy (1976–1977)
- First Counsellor at the Somali Embassy in Germany (1977–1982)
- First Counsellor at the Somali Embassy in Belgium (1982–1986)
- Somalia’s Ambassador to Turkey (1986–1989)
- Somalia’s Ambassador to Qatar (1989–2008)
Born in Shangani district, Mogadishu, on November 14, 1940, Ambassador Sharif dedicated 38 years of service to Somalia with commitment and integrity. He is survived by his wife and children.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs prays that Almighty Allah grant him mercy, light in his grave, and the highest place in Jannatul Firdaus, and may his family, relatives, and friends be blessed with patience and strength.
Inna Lillahi wa Inna Ilayhi Rajioon
