Somali National University Launches AI Centre to Advance Research and Digital Innovation

Somali National University (SNU)  has officially launched the Somali National Artificial Intelligence Centre (SNAIC),  a new Centre of Excellence established to promote artificial intelligence research, education, innovation and capacity building in Somalia.

The launch ceremony, held in Mogadishu, brought together representatives from government institutions, universities, research organisations, academia, and technology and artificial intelligence experts. The gathering underscored the growing importance of AI in supporting Somalia’s digital transformation and national development agenda.

The new centre will serve as the university’s focal point for artificial intelligence research and innovation, with a mandate to develop locally driven AI solutions to address national challenges. Its activities will span key areas including machine learning, natural language processing, data science, computer vision, robotics and AI ethics.

SNAIC will also support the application of AI across multiple sectors, including education, healthcare, agriculture, governance and the broader economy. By fostering research, skills development and innovation, the centre aims to strengthen Somalia’s AI ecosystem and equip researchers, students and technology professionals with the expertise needed to drive digital transformation and sustainable development.