Somalian operators Hormuud Telecom, Golis Telecom, and the GSMA have moved to deepen their collaboration with NGOs by developing a strategy to fully harness mobile technology for humanitarian efforts.
A workshop was held in partnership on the International Day for Disaster Risk Reduction (13 October) to demonstrate how leveraging mobile and digital technologies, such as early warning systems, can be life-changing for vulnerable and remote communities.
For instance, Hormuud and regional operator Golis pioneered the use of ringtones for critical alerts in Somalia, delivering life-saving instructions.
Mobile technology has played a key role in transforming Africa, with mobile money highlighted as a crucial tool for livelihoods and humanitarian aid in Somalia. The World Bank estimates that over three-quarters (76%) of Somalians use mobile money daily. Hormuud Telecom operates the EVC Plus mobile money platform, while Golis has developed Sahal. Humanitarian organisations have tapped into these platforms to deliver financial aid.
Hormuud Telecom CEO Ahmed Yusef stated: “For the past two decades, telecom providers have been the backbone of Somalia’s economy. Mobile money has helped young people become entrepreneurs, enabled families to purchase essentials, and allowed farmers to bring their goods to market.
“As Somalia faces challenges like climate change and rising food insecurity, we believe that by working closely with our humanitarian and development partners, mobile connectivity can play an even greater role in uplifting communities and driving sustainable development.”
Golis Telecom Mobile Money Director Khalif Hassan Isse added: “The telecommunications industry is the non-state sector with the largest contribution to Somalia’s economy and development. Our efforts to understand client needs and invest in cutting-edge technology have brought us to where we are today.”
