By Hassan Adan
Somalia has officially launched the Somalia Diaspora Centre, a new institution aimed at strengthening engagement with millions of Somalis living abroad and enhancing their role in the country’s development.
Prime Minister Hamza Abdi Barre inaugurated the centre at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, where he was received by Foreign Minister Abdisalam Abdi Ali.
The launch marks a significant step in implementing Somalia’s National Diaspora Policy and fostering closer cooperation between the Federal Government and Somali communities across the world.
Speaking during the inauguration, Prime Minister Hamza described the Somali diaspora as one of the country’s greatest national assets.
“Our diaspora has made an immeasurable contribution to Somalia’s recovery and development. This centre reflects the government’s commitment to building a stronger partnership with Somalis abroad and ensuring they remain central to our nation’s future,” the Prime Minister said.
Foreign Minister Abdisalam Abdi Ali said the new centre would serve as a bridge between the government and Somali communities overseas, promoting greater trust, collaboration and participation in national development.
“The Somalia Diaspora Centre will strengthen engagement with our citizens abroad and create a structured platform for cooperation. We want every Somali, wherever they live, to feel connected to the country’s progress,” the minister said.
The event was also attended by China’s Ambassador to Somalia, Wang Yu, who reaffirmed Beijing’s support for Somalia’s development agenda and welcomed the initiative as a step toward greater national unity.
“China values its longstanding friendship with Somalia and will continue supporting initiatives that promote development, cooperation and stronger people-to-people ties,” Ambassador Wang Yu said.
Somalia’s diaspora has long played a pivotal role in the country’s economy through remittances, investment and humanitarian support.
Government officials say the newly inaugurated centre will help coordinate diaspora engagement, encourage investment, preserve Somali identity abroad and strengthen links between overseas communities and institutions at home.
