By Asha Elmi - Reporter
Somalia, July 17, 2026 – Somalia on Thursday launched a national innovation network to connect business incubators, chambers of commerce and public institutions in support of start-ups and entrepreneurs.
The network was unveiled during the BIC Somali Innovation Forum in Mogadishu, where stakeholders also signed a memorandum of understanding to deepen cooperation across the entrepreneurship ecosystem.
The initiative forms part of the BIC Somali Project, an entrepreneurship programme funded by the European Union and implemented by the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO) in partnership with Somali innovation hubs and business support organisations.
Speaking at the closing ceremony, Ibrahim Osman, Director General at Somalia's Ministry of Commerce and Industry, said the government viewed innovation, entrepreneurship and digitalisation as key drivers of economic growth and pledged to strengthen legal protections for innovators through intellectual property legislation currently under development.
Related articles
He also urged start-ups to formally register their businesses, saying legal incorporation would help entrepreneurs protect their ideas and improve access to investment and financial services.
Project coordinator Najiib Abdi of UNIDO said the programme had established what is now known as the BIC Somali Network, linking innovation hubs in Mogadishu and Hargeisa with chambers of commerce in Kismayo, Baidoa and Bosaso to expand support services for entrepreneurs across the country.
According to programme officials, the initiative received more than 3,600 applications over three cohorts, with 500 participants receiving initial training, more than 200 entrepreneurs completing formal incubation programmes and 75 start-ups supported in the latest cohort.
Organisers said the project aims to promote job creation, strengthen innovation and expand opportunities for Somalia's predominantly young population.