Mogadishu, (SONNA) — The National Communications Authority (NCA), in partnership with SIMAD University and with the support of the Malaysia Cyber Security Agency, today officially launched the Somalia Branch of the Global Accredited Cybersecurity Education (ACE), a significant milestone aimed at strengthening national cybersecurity capacity through internationally recognized standards and professional certifications.
The launch ceremony, held at SIMAD Town Campus, was attended by representatives from the National Communications Authority, SIMAD University, and the Malaysia Cyber Security Agency, during which the global framework of Global ACE was formally introduced in Somalia.
Speaking at the opening of the event, the Director General of the Malaysia Cyber Security Agency, Dato’ Ts. Dr. Haji Amirudin Abdul Wahab, stated that the establishment of Somalia’s National Chapter reflects a shared commitment to strengthening international cooperation in cybersecurity education. He noted that the Global ACE framework supports governments and academic institutions in developing professionals equipped with the knowledge, ethics, and readiness required in the cybersecurity sector, aligned with global standards and mutual international recognition.
The Chairman of SIMAD University, Dr. Cabdikariim Muxyadiin, highlighted the university’s role in hosting and supporting the National Chapter of Global ACE, saying:
“SIMAD University is pleased to host the National Chapter of Global ACE in Somalia. This initiative supports our vision of delivering high-quality, globally aligned education, while equipping Somali youth and professionals with the skills needed to protect and advance the country’s digital future.”
For his part, the Director General of the National Communications Authority, Mr. Mustafa Yaasin Sheekh, emphasized the Authority’s commitment to building a robust national cybersecurity ecosystem, stating:
“The launch of Somalia’s National Chapter of Global ACE is a strategic step toward strengthening cybersecurity governance and professional capacity in the country. This partnership supports the development of a skilled workforce aligned with international standards and contributes to security, trust, and the growth of Somalia’s digital economy.”
Global ACE is a vendor-neutral international certification framework developed through collaboration among governments, the telecommunications and technology sectors, and academic institutions, in alignment with global standards. Hosted by SIMAD University, Somalia’s National Chapter will support certification programs, training initiatives, and capacity-building programs for students, professionals, and experts working in the field of cybersecurity.
