Somalia’s Immigration and Citizenship Agency (ICA) has announced a raft of sweeping reforms and milestones achieved in its mid-year performance report, signaling a transformative leap in how the country manages migration, border control, and public services.
In the report, ICA detailed the progress made in its institutional reform, human resource development, passport modernisation, digital integration, and border security.
“This work represents the beginning of a long-term transformation,” said Mustafa Sheikh Ali Duhulow, Director General of the ICA.
“We are building an institution that protects the dignity of Somali citizens, strengthens the rule of law, and supports the country’s engagement with the world.”
He noted that the gains realized in passport modernisation, border security, and digital transformation mark a new chapter for migration governance in Somalia.
In Its strategic reform and institutional resilience, the agency established a Performance and Accountability Office to monitor progress and ensure transparency in all its operations.
It has also began developing the ICA Training Academy for staff development and capacity building.
On employee welfare, the agency will reinforcing civil service links by having formal registration of ICA employees under the Civil Service Commission, as well as recognition and compensation of at least 156 long-serving volunteer staff.
New internal committees have also been introduced to handle promotions, disciplinary actions, and staff incentives.
The report said that in collaboration with Interpol, ICA has bolstered international cooperation on border control and law enforcement.
Mustafa cited the adoption of advanced pre-screening tools like the Advance Passenger Information System (APIS) and Passenger Name Record (PNR) system, which have been crucial in enhancing border security.
He also cited infrastructure development such as opening of a third passport center in Daynile District and the ongoing construction for a central passport facility in Boondheere.
On Digital Transformation and Interagency collaboration, ”A key achievement was the rollout of the e-TAS electronic visa system, which contributed to a 27.4% rise in government revenue. A new interagency coordination committee now facilitates data sharing between passport services and national ID systems.”
ICA added that to ensure equitable service delivery, ICA has established new offices in Dhusamareeb (Galmudug) and SSC-Khatumo, providing full immigration and citizenship services to historically underserved populations.
This has greatly impacted the ease of acquiring passports from area residents and those from neighboring regions.
