Diplomatic Institute

Diplomatic Institute of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation

The Diplomatic Institute of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation was established on December 3, 1986, under Decree No. 1, with the mission to build the capacity of Somali diplomats and equip them with the skills necessary to represent the nation’s interests effectively on the international stage.

In its formative years, the Institute graduated two batches of diplomats, each completing a rigorous two-year program and earning a higher diploma between 1986 and 1990. These diplomats contributed significantly to Somalia’s global presence before the collapse of the central government on January 26, 1991.

Despite the challenges posed by political instability, the Diplomatic Institute remained steadfast in its mission of promoting excellence in diplomacy and international relations. After being closed for over a decade, the Institute was reopened in 2007 to address Somalia’s evolving diplomatic needs.

Vision

To establish the Diplomatic Institute as a premier center of excellence for developing skilled, knowledgeable, and globally engaged diplomats, capable of advancing Somalia’s national interests and effectively addressing complex international challenges.

Mission

The Diplomatic Institute aims to deliver innovative training programs, foster research, and facilitate collaboration to enhance the professional capabilities of Somali diplomats, government officials, and international relations practitioners. It aspires to strengthen Somalia’s voice in regional and global affairs through education and strategic engagement.

Core Objectives

1. Capacity Building:
   • Provide specialized training to Ministry of Foreign Affairs personnel, focusing on key areas such as negotiation, international law, and conflict resolution.
   • Offer language training in English, Swahili, and Amharic to enable effective communication in regional and international settings.
2. Research and Knowledge Development:
   • Conduct and publish research on Somalia’s foreign policy, regional dynamics, and emerging global trends.
   • Serve as a resource hub for evidence-based decision-making in foreign policy and international relations.

1. Collaboration and Outreach:
   • Partner with academic institutions, think tanks, and international organizations to promote knowledge exchange and shared expertise.
   • Organize seminars, conferences, and workshops to engage stakeholders in addressing pressing global issues.
2. Advanced Training Programs:
   • Develop cutting-edge curricula that incorporate modern diplomatic challenges such as climate diplomacy, digital governance, and economic partnerships.
   • Leverage digital platforms to enhance accessibility and flexibility in training.
3. Cross-Sectoral Engagement:
   • Extend training opportunities to representatives from other government entities, including technical attachés and envoys, to foster inter-agency collaboration in international relations.

Achievements and Contributions

Between 1986 and 1990, the Diplomatic Institute of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation played a critical role in shaping Somalia’s diplomatic corps. Two cohorts of graduates completed the two-year higher diploma program under the guidance of Egyptian professors who resided in the Institute’s guesthouse behind the Ministry of Foreign Affairs building.

The Institute’s reopening in 2007 marked a renewed commitment to addressing Somalia’s need for skilled diplomats capable of navigating an increasingly complex international environment.

Leadership

Over the years, the Diplomatic Institute has been led by distinguished directors who have contributed to its growth and development:

1. Amb. Abdinur Ali Yusuf – (1986–1988)
2. Amb. Abdullahi Haji Abubakar – (1988–1990)
3. Mr. Yusuf Alasow Mohamud – (2007– 28 February, 2021)
4. Mr. Abdiweli Hassan Hussein (Fadilatuhu) – (6 June, 2021–15 February, 2024)
5. Amb. Abdulkadir Amin Sheikh – (20 February, 2024–Present)

Strategic Vision for the Future

The Diplomatic Institute seeks to expand its impact by:

• Introducing specialized training in areas such as economic diplomacy, cybersecurity, and regional integration.
• Enhancing research initiatives to explore Somalia’s role in global peacebuilding, development, and regional cooperation.
• Modernizing its facilities to provide state-of-the-art learning environments.
• Hosting international diplomats and trainees to strengthen regional and global networks.

Core Values

• Excellence: Committing to the highest standards in education, training, and research.
• Integrity: Upholding transparency and ethical practices in all endeavors.
• Collaboration: Building strong partnerships with national, regional, and international stakeholders.
• Innovation: Adapting to the dynamic landscape of global diplomacy.
• Inclusivity: Encouraging diverse perspectives and fostering mutual respect.