Somalia, 17 September 2025 – In his 40-minute address to the nation on Wednesday night Somalia's President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud touched on a wide range of issues among them politics and constitution-making, key socio-economic government decisions and upcoming development projects.
Below are some of the key issues the President discussed.
Politics and the Constitution
The President stated that the government would continue with the constitutional review process to its final conclusion. He expressed his willingness to engage with those holding differing views to help come up with an inclusive document. He urged Federal Member States leaders not to be an obstacle to the federal government efforts to unify the country. This remark seemed directed towards Puntland and Jubaland Presidents who currently do not have official relations with the central government.
NIRA Card and New Directives
The President also touched on the government's decision relating to the National Identity Registration Card (NIRA). He directed that all companies, banks, and government agencies to only conduct business with individuals who possess the card. He urged residents to register for the cards, emphasizing that in future anyone who does not have the card will be considered to have committed an offense.
Somalis Holding Foreign Passports
The President also addressed the issue of Somali nationals holding foreign passports, stating that it is mandatory for such individuals to enter the country with a visa. He stressed the necessity for these individuals to obtain visas in a similar manner to other nationals entering Somalia.
Electricity and Economic Development
The President mentioned that more than 50 percent of the Somali population currently has access to electricity, which he described as a significant achievement compared to many African countries. He also announced a $100 million investment in a private company supplying electricity, emphasizing that the energy provided will not harm the country's environment.
Praise and Development of Ministries
The President praised the Ministries of Religious Affairs and Education for their outstanding work, particularly in the areas of education and Hajj services. He stated that the management of Hajj and educational services has tremendously improved, demonstrating tangible progress.
Monetary Changes
The head of state also addressed the issue of currency changes in Somalia, announcing that new banknotes would be issued soon. The use of mobile money in U.S. dollars will be replaced by the Somali shilling, with the EVC service provided by the telecom company, Hormuud, as an example of how the Somali currency will function in the same way the dollar is currently used.
The speech delivered by the President was part of an event showcasing the achievements of his administration, with a focus on strengthening the governance system and ensuring Somali people benefit from public services.
The event was attended by government officials, business leaders, and various members of society, highlighting the progress made in recent years by the government under the leadership of Prime Minister Hamza Abdi Barre.