Somalia sought $40 million from international partners to launch new banknotes, aiming to stabilize the economy and reduce counterfeiting. Finance Minister Bihi Iman Egeh said the Central Bank would manage the rollout to ensure transparency and proper distribution. The initiative formed part of broader economic stabilization efforts following debt relief, with authorities emphasizing the need for credible currency circulation to restore confidence in the financial system.

Somalia’s National Communications Authority consulted with telecom operators on joining the East African One Network Area, a regional initiative to reduce roaming costs and enhance digital integration. Officials presented a roadmap to align laws, tariffs, and regulations with regional standards. The move is expected to give consumers cheaper cross-border calls and data, strengthen economic ties, and support Somalia’s digital transformation within the East African Community framework.

Somalia and Saudi Arabia signed a cooperation framework to advance artificial intelligence and space technologies. The agreement, reached in Riyadh during the Global Symposium for Regulators, was formalized between Somalia’s National Communications Authority and Saudi Arabia’s Communications, Space and Technology Commission. Officials said the partnership will focus on regulatory standards, infrastructure, knowledge sharing, and policy development to promote innovation, ethical technology use, and digital cooperation between the two countries.

Somalia and the International Monetary Fund (IMF) opened the fourth review of the Extended Credit Facility program in Nairobi. Finance Minister Bihi Iman Egeh and senior IMF officials led the talks. They assessed Somalia’s progress on economic reforms, public financial management, and fiscal transparency. The review aims to strengthen governance, sustain debt relief gains, and consolidate reforms for long-term economic stability.

Somalia’s domestic revenue grew 12% to $369 million in 2024, boosted by income, sales, and rental taxes, exceeding budget targets. Non-tax revenue stood at $102 million. GDP rose 4.1%, supported by agricultural output, livestock exports, remittances, and private sector credit. External debt fell to $1.51 billion following $4.5 billion in debt relief under the HIPC Initiative, improving fiscal space for development.

Somalia participated in the Global Transport and Culture Integration Forum in Beijing, represented by officials from the Ministry of Transport and Civil Aviation. Delegates discussed the country’s transport and aviation infrastructure plans and explored potential international partnerships. The forum, attended by representatives from over 10 countries, focused on linking transport technology with cultural considerations. Somali officials stated that participation supports long-term infrastructure and connectivity objectives.

Communications Minister Mohamed Aden Moallim signed postal agreements at the 28th UPU Congress in Dubai, aligning Somalia with international standards, modernizing courier services, and expanding e-commerce to boost trade and economic growth. The UPU adopted its 2026–2029 Strategy and Dubai Business Plan, prioritizing digitalization, innovation, regional cooperation, and measurable outcomes. The reforms strengthen global postal networks and enhance Somalia’s role in cross-border trade and logistics.

A cargo vessel carrying 950 tons of rice and 78 tons of sugar for Somali traders caught fire off Porbandar, Gujarat, on Sept 22, 2025. Authorities launched firefighting operations, and the vessel was reported at risk of capsizing. The cargo formed part of Somalia’s essential imports, which supply local markets. Officials have not confirmed the value of the shipment or its potential impact on domestic food prices.

The Turkish Cooperation and Coordination Agency (TIKA) expanded support for Somalia through education and social development projects. Initiatives included opening a Turkish language classroom in an orphanage, establishing a laboratory at Mogadishu University, and funding the Mustaqbal Center for Children with Special Needs. Officials highlighted TIKA’s role in strengthening education, technical training, and support for vulnerable children, and encouraged Turkish investors to explore Somalia’s agricultural and maritime sectors.