Mogadishu, Somalia – The National Library of Somalia has taken a significant step toward institutional reform by convening a three-day public consultation forum on the Draft Somali National Library and Archives Act. The event brought together key government institutions, academia, legal experts, and civil society representatives to review and provide critical input on the proposed Bill.
Designed to strengthen civic participation and promote inclusive governance, the consultation ensured that the final Act reflects national priorities in education, legal compliance, and cultural preservation.
Broad and Inclusive Participation
The forum witnessed a diverse cross-section of stakeholders, including:
- Ministry of Education, Culture and Higher Education
Ministry of Justice and Constitutional Affairs
Office of the Prime Minister
Local university libraries
Lawyers and scholars from Somali National University
Ministry of Religious Affairs
National Disability Agency
Civil society organizations, including women’s groups
Independent scholars and researchers
Ministerial representatives contributed from legal and educational perspectives, examining the draft Act’s constitutional alignment, governance structure, regulatory clarity, and its potential to advance national education policy and access to information.
Over three days, participants engaged in constructive, technical discussions and presented actionable recommendations to strengthen the draft legislation—emphasizing inclusive service delivery and institutional accountability.
Official Opening
The event was officially opened by H.E. Ustaad Farah Abdulkhadir, Minister of Education, Culture and Higher Education. In his keynote address, the Minister expressed satisfaction with the progress of the Somali National Library, noting that while the Ministry had previously prioritized basic education to help Somali children return to school, the time has now come to make the National Library and Archives a strategic national priority.
He confirmed that the draft Act would next proceed to the Council of Ministers before being submitted to Parliament for final approval.
Technical Presentation and Closing
The Director General of the Somali National Library delivered a detailed overview of the draft Act’s chapters and key provisions, actively inviting public input. Participants responded with legal observations, policy recommendations, and institutional perspectives throughout the three-day forum.
The consultation was officially closed by Mr. Ismail, Chairman of the Somali Academy of Science, Culture and Art, who thanked all attendees for their invaluable contributions.
In his closing remarks, the Director General expressed deep appreciation to all stakeholders and extended special thanks to international partners—particularly UNTMIS–HRPG—for their support and facilitation.
Looking Ahead
The National Library of Somalia remains firmly committed to inclusive reform as the draft Act advances through the governmental approval process.