The National Communications Authority (NCA) of Somalia recently organised a high-level consultation meeting to discuss and gather feedback on the draft regulations for submarine cable landings. This initiative is part of the authority’s efforts to enhance the region’s secure and competitive broadband infrastructure.
During the event, stakeholders from the Somali telecommunications sector gathered to share insights, including top executives, legal advisors, and technical specialists representing licensed operators.
Mr. Mustafa Yasin Sheikh, the NCA’s Director General, emphasised the new regulations’ significance and alignment with global standards. He highlighted Somalia’s advantages, noting its extensive coastline—the longest in Africa—providing exceptional opportunities for submarine cable infrastructure. This development is expected to improve connectivity in Somalia and neighbouring landlocked countries in East and Central Africa. Mr. Sheikh stressed adopting international standards and regulations that foster secure, competitive, and sustainable infrastructure to capitalise on these opportunities.
He also expressed gratitude to the International Finance Corporation (IFC) for its ongoing support of the NCA through the Somalia Broadband Infrastructure Project.
The consultation addressed key elements of the draft regulation, such as licensing and compliance frameworks, security and operational standards, interconnection requirements, and their role in facilitating national and regional broadband growth. The draft reflects feedback collected in past discussions with the private sector since September 2024.
Following the consultation, stakeholders must submit their written feedback on the draft regulations by April 30, 2025, before its final approval.
