NCA Launches Somali Cybersecurity Terminology

MOGADISHU – The National Communications Authority (NCA) partnered with the Academy of Arts, Culture and Literature and the Regional Somali Language Academy (AGA) to launch a Somali-language cybersecurity terminology initiative. The project focuses on developing and standardizing cybersecurity terminology in Somali.

The event took place at the Regional Somali Language Academy headquarters in Mogadishu, attended by government officials, academics, linguists, cybersecurity experts, technology specialists, and various stakeholders.

Preserving Somali Language While Advancing Technology

Acting Director General of the Academy of Arts, Culture and Literature, Abdifitah Ahmed Abukar (Foodcade), emphasized the importance of the Somali language advancing with technology.

“Language is the foundation of knowledge. If our language cannot evolve with modern technological developments, society cannot fully benefit from new innovations. This initiative aims to strengthen the Somali language, enhance public services, and improve awareness,” he stated.

The Ministry of Education, Culture and Higher Education has reaffirmed its commitment to policies that protect, promote, and advance the Somali language, emphasizing that the Somali language remains the most authentic expression of national identity and a critical tool for ensuring equitable access to knowledge and public services.

Standardizing Terminology for Scientific Advancement

Acting Chairman of the Regional Somali Language Academy, Prof. Abdalla Omar Mansur, highlighted how terminology development advances scientific and academic use of Somali.

“Terminology allows a language to function as a scientific medium. When developing new terms, standardization is crucial, as is avoiding literal translations and building on previous language development efforts. This ensures the language can accommodate new knowledge and emerging disciplines,” he explained.

The Regional Somali Language Academy (AGA) was officially launched to advance linguistic research, standardize the Somali language, and enhance its use in education, governance, media, and technology. A specialized committee was established to oversee the implementation of the Academy’s foundational priorities, including developing technical and scientific terminology.

Building a Unified Cybersecurity Vocabulary

NCA Director General Mustafa Yasin Sheikh called the initiative a major advancement for Somali in cybersecurity.

“A unified Somali cybersecurity terminology will help develop legislation, policies, academic publications, and awareness materials. It will also enable students, parents, and the general public to better understand digital concepts and cyber threats,” he stated.

The National Communications Authority has convened a national consultation to formulate Somalia’s Cybersecurity Risk Management and Compliance Framework, bringing together key government agencies, private sector representatives, educational institutions, civil society organizations, and technical experts. The State Minister of Communications and Technology underscored the increasing significance of cybersecurity in a rapidly digitizing society.

Expanding Access to Digital Knowledge

The NCA Director noted that the terminology framework would support translating scientific articles, books, and technology resources into Somali, improving knowledge access and encouraging greater public engagement with digital matters.

The Council of Ministers, chaired by Prime Minister Hamza Abdi Barre, approved the long-awaited Cybercrime Bill during its weekly meeting, providing Somalia with a comprehensive legal framework to combat the growing threats posed by cybercriminals. The legislation criminalizes a wide range of digital offenses, including hacking, identity theft, phishing, the spread of malicious software, and unauthorized access to sensitive data.

Looking Ahead

This cybersecurity initiative is part of ongoing efforts to promote the Somali language and expand its use in cybersecurity, helping citizens better understand and benefit from digital concepts and innovations. The terminology project represents a significant step toward ensuring that Somali remains a living, evolving language capable of serving as a medium for scientific and technical discourse in the digital age.

Digital literacy and access to technology have been identified as key priorities for Somalia’s development, with initiatives focused on job creation, small business development, and sustainable livelihood projects to reduce dependence on aid while encouraging self-reliance. Making digital concepts accessible in the Somali language is essential for ensuring that all citizens can participate in and benefit from the country’s digital transformation.