Somalia’s House of the People Approves National Cybersecurity Law

Somalia, 26 January 2026 Somalia’s House of the People on Monday approved a national cybersecurity law aimed at strengthening the country’s digital infrastructure, protecting information systems, and enhancing national cyber defence.

The legislation was passed by a vote of 144 in favour and one against out of 145 members present, during the 7th parliamentary session, 32nd meeting, chaired by Speaker Sheikh Aden Mohamed Nur ‘Madoobe’ and Second Deputy Speaker Abdullahi Omar Abshir.

The law designates the National Communications Authority (NCA) as the lead government body responsible for cybersecurity management, including the protection of critical infrastructure and digital assets. It establishes a Cybersecurity Committee of nine members and a Cyber Emergency Response Centre to coordinate rapid responses to incidents.

It also formally activates the Somalia Cyber Incident Response Team (SOM-CIRT), which will issue early warnings, alerts, and disseminate information about cyber threats. According to the law, all cybersecurity operations and protection of critical infrastructure fall under its jurisdiction.