NIRA Inaugurates New Identification Center in Hamarweyne District.

Hamarweyne, Banadir , Mogadishu, Somalia – April 16, 2025 — In a significant move toward expanding access to national identification services across Somalia, the National Identification and Registration Authority (NIRA) has officially launched a new service center in Hamarweyne District. The inauguration ceremony was led by Mr. Abdirahman Said Ahmed, Deputy General Manager of NIRA, alongside Mr. Osman Muridi Ali, Chairman of Hamarweyne District.

The event drew a large gathering, including NIRA staff, local government representatives, elders, youth leaders, and members of civil society. The opening of the center reflects growing efforts to improve administrative infrastructure and public service accessibility in the heart of Mogadishu.

"This is more than just the opening of an office—it's a commitment to inclusion and national development,” said Mr. Ahmed in his speech during the event. “Our goal is to ensure that every Somali citizen has a legal identity. With identity comes empowerment—the ability to access services, exercise rights, and participate fully in society."

Chairman Osman Muridi Ali emphasized the importance of collaboration between national institutions and district-level authorities. "This center is a result of joint efforts, and it brings services closer to the people. We are proud to host such a critical institution in Hamarweyne," he said.

NIRA has been working steadily to roll out centers across all regions of Somalia as part of its broader mission to create an inclusive, secure, and digitized national ID system. The initiative is particularly crucial for vulnerable populations, including women, internally displaced persons (IDPs), and marginalized communities, who often face challenges in obtaining official documentation.

The new Hamarweyne center is expected to handle registration, issuance of national ID numbers, and biometric data collection. It will also serve as a hub for public awareness campaigns on the importance of national identification.

Community members expressed optimism and support for the initiative. "Having a NIRA office here means we no longer have to travel far or wait for mobile units. It's a relief and a big step forward," said Amina Ali, a local resident attending the ceremony.

As Somalia continues its journey toward modernization and state-building, projects like these play a pivotal role in strengthening governance, improving access to essential services, and enhancing security.

NIRA officials confirmed that additional centers are planned for neighboring districts in the coming months.        

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