Somalia, Switzerland sign immigration reform deal to boost border security, global mobility
The partnership is designed to support Somalia in overhauling its immigration framework through infrastructure development, capacity building, and efforts to boost the security and global recognition of Somali travel documents.
Somalia and Switzerland have signed a new cooperation agreement aimed at strengthening Somalia’s immigration system and enhancing border control mechanisms.
The agreement was formalised by Mustafa Duhulow, Director-General of Somalia’s Immigration and Citizenship Agency (ICA), during an official visit to Switzerland.
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It follows a series of high-level meetings between Somali and Swiss officials, involving representatives from Switzerland’s ministries of justice and foreign affairs, along with immigration and border security experts.
The partnership is designed to support Somalia in overhauling its immigration framework through infrastructure development, capacity building, and efforts to boost the security and global recognition of Somali travel documents.
Results-oriented partnership
“This is a results-oriented partnership that will significantly improve the quality and credibility of Somalia’s immigration services,” said Mustafa during the signing ceremony.
Key provisions of the agreement include the introduction of new technologies and the alignment of Somalia’s immigration processes with international standards.
As part of the visit, the Somali delegation toured major border control and airport facilities in Switzerland, where they observed advanced systems used in managing immigration and border operations.
Swiss authorities emphasised that the cooperation goes beyond technical upgrades, also aiming to support Somalia’s broader national security objectives.
Build greater international trust
By modernising travel documentation systems, officials hope Somalia will build greater international trust and facilitate improved mobility for its citizens worldwide.
The agreement is expected to pave the way for a series of technical and institutional reforms within Somalia’s immigration agency. It will also support the training of personnel, the upgrading of facilities, and the adoption of biometric systems that comply with global standards.
Officials from both sides expressed optimism that the cooperation would deliver long-term results and deepen bilateral ties.
The Somali delegation is set to return with a set of recommendations and insights gathered during the visit, which will inform the next phase of implementation.
The signing marks a significant step in Somalia’s ongoing efforts to reform public service sectors and align with international best practices, especially in areas critical to national security and global mobility.
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