By Zamzam Osman - Reporter
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Somalia, 12 April 2026 Somalia’s National Independent Electoral Commission (NIEBC) and the National Identification and Registration Authority (NIRA) have opened new offices in Masagawaa, Galgaduud region, a move aimed at strengthening citizen registration and preparations for one-person, one-vote elections.
The establishment of the offices is part of broader efforts by the Federal Government of Somalia to expand public services to remote areas, enabling communities to actively participate in the country’s democratic process.
Officials from the Electoral Commission and NIRA, accompanied by members of parliament and local authorities, said the offices will facilitate the issuance of national ID cards and voter registration.
They added that residents of Masagawaa are expected to play a key role in the upcoming elections, urging the public to take full advantage of the opportunity.
Local elders, youth, and women welcomed the initiative, expressing readiness to participate in elections and support state-building efforts.
Masagawaa, located in Galgaduud, came under government control in late 2022 following military operations by the Federal Government and local community forces known as Macawiisley in central Somalia.
The opening of these offices comes as Somalia accelerates preparations for direct elections, with increased efforts on public awareness and nationwide voter registration.