Digitize Somalia advocates for digital transformation, equal access, and inclusion — working to close the digital divide for women, elders, people with disabilities, students, small businesses, and communities the network hasn't reached yet.
"Connectivity alone doesn't change a country — people need the skills to use it, the means to afford it, and the confidence that it's safe. We work on closing every part of that gap, together."
Across Somalia, the barriers to digital inclusion aren't all the same — and they need different answers.
In many towns and neighborhoods with working internet and mobile network coverage, large numbers of people still aren't online — held back by low digital literacy, the cost of data and devices, or, in some areas, security restrictions on device and internet use.
Large parts of the country still have no BTS towers, no 3G/4G — telecom operators haven't built there yet, and many residents have never used a smartphone or the internet, and don't know what access could mean for them. Reaching these communities takes more than infrastructure — it takes people showing up, explaining what they're missing, and building the case for coverage.
Within Somalia's major cities, metro fiber and FTTH have expanded fast since fiber first landed in 2013. But between cities, most backbone links still run on microwave, not fiber — laying intercity fiber cable remains difficult because of security concerns along the routes. That leaves inter-city connectivity slower and less resilient than it should be.
Each program targets a specific barrier — literacy, affordability, access, awareness, or advocacy — because a single approach can't reach everyone.
Advocacy and direct action to close the gap between Somalis who are online and those who are not — regardless of location, income, gender, age, or ability.
Helping people with disabilities access devices, assistive tools, and training suited to their needs, so digital services are usable by everyone.
Patient, practical training for older Somalis — using a phone, mobile money, calling family, and staying safe online — so age isn't a barrier to staying connected.
Raising funds and support to help low-income households get phones, and pressing telecom and broadband operators for lower prices and special low-income tariffs.
Targeted outreach and training so women — often the least connected in their households — gain the skills and confidence to use digital tools and services.
Year-round digital literacy programs for students — basic device use, safe internet habits, and the skills schools don't always have the resources to teach.
Helping non-digital businesses adopt digital media, mobile payments, and POS systems, so they aren't left behind as commerce moves online.
Engaging telecom and broadband operators to extend coverage into unconnected and untapped areas, and to expand affordable, reliable service nationwide.
Visiting communities with no network or no digital habits, explaining what connectivity and digital skills could open up for them, and helping build local demand for coverage.
Public awareness on scams, financial fraud, hacking, phishing, and online bullying — so people can use the internet with confidence, not fear.
Whether you want to volunteer time, support a program, or partner with us on delivery, there's a place to help close Somalia's digital divide.