TaiwanICDF Assists Somaliland in Launching its First Government Data Center — A Milestone in Digital Governance

(中央社訊息服務20251020 17:15:12)The Taiwan Technical Mission in Somaliland, along with Somaliland’s Ministry of Information and Communication Technology (MICT), held a groundbreaking ceremony for the Government Data and Cybersecurity Center on September 22 at the MICT in Hargeisa.

Approximately 40 guests attended the event, including Representative of the Republic of China (Taiwan) to the Republic of Somaliland Ambassador Allen Lou, Minister of Information and Communication Technology the Hon. Jamal Mohamed Jama, Minister of Public Works the Hon. Hussein Ahmed Aideed, Deputy Minister of ICT Maliki Abdi Hassan, Director General of ICT Ahmed Carab Muuse, as well as officials from Taiwan’s embassy, MICT staff, and members of the Taiwan Technical Mission (TTM).

In his remarks, Minister Jamal expressed his sincere appreciation to the Government of Taiwan and the International Cooperation and Development Fund (TaiwanICDF) for their steadfast support of the data center project. He emphasized that this would be Somaliland’s first-ever government data center, marking a major step forward in technological development and data security. Once completed, the MICT will ensure the center’s effective operation, help government agencies strengthen their digital capacity, and promote e-governance to enhance public service efficiency.

The data center’s campus encompasses the main building structure, server facilities, and cybersecurity management systems—all designed and constructed in accordance with international standards. Ambassador Lou said that the initiative demonstrates Taiwan’s strong commitment to assisting Somaliland in strengthening its digital governance and cybersecurity capacity. He added that Taiwan is honored to share its extensive experience in information technology and cybersecurity to support Somaliland’s sovereign digital development. The country’s National Data Center Project, together with related e-governance initiatives such as the “S-Road” system, will reinforce Somaliland’s e-government services and overall digital infrastructure.

TaiwanICDF Deputy Secretary General Peifen Hsieh stated that one of the key challenges to e-government development in Somaliland is the lack of national capacity to manage and safeguard government data. Taiwan, with its rich experience in information technology, cybersecurity, and data center management, is well positioned to assist Somaliland in formulating supporting policies, establishing and managing critical ICT infrastructure, and training professionals from both the public and private sectors, she said, adding that current efforts will enhance the government’s overall digitalization and information security capabilities.

Hsieh said that the groundbreaking ceremony symbolizes marks the birth of a “digital nation.” Once completed, the center will play a crucial role in managing Somaliland’s key government data, cybersecurity protection, and software applications. Looking ahead, the TaiwanICDF will also assist Somaliland in adopting the ISO/IEC 27001 Information Security Management System standard. Through these efforts, Taiwan is helping Somaliland align with international standards, realizing the aims of Taiwanese Minister of Foreign Affairs Lin Chia-lung’s “Diplomatic Allies Prosperity Project” initiative on Trusted Networks and Digital Governance.