In recent years, Somalia has witnessed a remarkable transformation fuelled by the dynamic growth of the private sector. These organizations have emerged as powerful catalysts, playing a pivotal role in revitalizing the economy and driving positive change. As the war-torn nation continues to rebuild itself, the impact of private companies on the Somali economy cannot be overstated. This article explores how these businesses are reshaping the economic landscape, fostering employment opportunities, promoting innovation, and bringing hope to a nation on its path to recovery.

It’s evident that private companies have emerged as important drivers of economic growth. They are transforming key sectors such as telecommunications, finance, and energy. One sector that has experienced a significant transformation is the telecommunications industry, where telco companies invested hugely in network infrastructure, technological advancements, and expanding internet access across Somalia. This increased connectivity has not only facilitated communication but has also opened up new avenues for business and trade.

When it comes to enhancing other key infrastructure and Services in the absence of the government's resources and capacity, private companies have stepped in to invest in and contribute to the redevelopment of key infrastructures in Somalia.

In the past 20 years, local companies such as Hormuud Telecom, Salaam Somali Bank, BECO, and Buruuj -a construction company- alone are estimated to have invested over $2.5 billion in the core infrastructure of the country, in sectors such as telecommunications, energy, finance, and construction, assuring long-term economic growth and sustainable development.

Mohamed Sadiq, Director of International Relations for BECO, a privately owned electricity company, has indicated that the company has invested $170 million in developing the country's electricity network in recent years. Furthermore, he mentioned that a $220 million investment in green energy has been signed by the company.

Thirty percent of BECO electric production comes from renewable sources and their plan is to push that number to seventy percent in the coming year 2024said Engineer Mohamud the chief technical officer of BECO speaking at the SOMINVEST conference held in Mogadishu 

There are many factors that need to be in place for a country to succeed economically. One of those factors is employment. In a country where there is dire unemployment, private companies have become the engines of job creation by providing valuable employment opportunities, particularly for youth. A good example is Hormuud Telecom, the largest telecommunications company in Somalia, which has created thousands of jobs for well over 35,000 individuals, making it the largest employer in the country.

Despite the challenging circumstances in the country, the private sector is thriving and pushing the envelope of what is possible. According to Mohamed Abdi, ICT Director at Hormuud Telecom, the telecommunications sector has seen the most growth compared to other sectors, providing millions of Somalis with affordable access to mobile phones and internet services.

Abdi added that “Somalia's internet service is now the lowest in Africa, as well as the seventh lowest in the world due to the heavy investments in 4G, 5G, and fibre networks by privately owned operators.”

To wrap up, the impact of private companies on the Somali economy is undeniable. They have become powerful agents of change, propelling economic growth, and creating jobs. Their contributions are essential to Somalia's recovery and its journey toward stability and prosperity. As the nation continues to rebuild, it is crucial to recognize and support the role of private enterprises in unlocking the immense potential of the Somali economy. With the right investments, policies, and partnerships, private companies can continue to be transformative forces, bringing lasting positive impacts to the people of Somalia.

In today's interconnected world, staying connected to the internet is no longer a luxury but a necessity. Whether it's for work, socializing, or accessing information, reliable and seamless connectivity is paramount. For years, physical SIM cards have served us well. However, with the advancement of technology, the introduction of  e-SIM has eliminated the need for physical SIM cards and their limitations, bringing a more flexible and enhanced user experience.

In this blog post, we will delve into the advantages of eSIM technology and explore its potential to shape the future of connectivity.

What is eSIM?

To understand the benefits of eSIM, let's first grasp what it actually is. eSIM, short for embedded SIM, is a programmable SIM card embedded within a device. Unlike physical SIM cards, which need to be swapped when changing networks or carriers, eSIMs can be reprogrammed remotely, allowing for greater flexibility and convenience.

Enhanced Flexibility and Convenience:

One of the major advantages of eSIM technology is its flexibility. With eSIM, users can switch between different network operators and plans without the need for physical SIM card changes. This means no more fumbling with tiny SIM cards or visiting carrier stores to make adjustments. The ability to switch networks on the go empowers users with the freedom to choose the best connectivity options based on their needs, whether it's for travel, cost savings, or network coverage.

Streamlined Global Connectivity:

For frequent travellers, eSIM is a game-changer. Instead of relying on local SIM cards, eSIM enables seamless global connectivity. Users can simply activate a local data plan or pay-as-you-go plan through their device's eSIM functionality. This eliminates the hassle of purchasing and installing new SIM cards in different countries, making travel more convenient and cost-effective.

Space-Saving Design:

The embedded nature of eSIM technology means that it takes up no physical space within the device, unlike traditional SIM cards. This opens up opportunities for manufacturers to design sleeker, slimmer devices with larger screens or more room for other essential components. Additionally, the absence of a physical SIM card slot allows for improved water and dust resistance, enhancing the durability and longevity of devices.

Internet of Things (IoT) Integration:

As we move towards a more connected world, with devices and appliances becoming increasingly smart, eSIM technology plays a crucial role in enabling seamless integration within the Internet of Things (IoT) ecosystem. IoT devices, such as smartwatches, fitness trackers, and home automation systems, can leverage eSIM capabilities to connect directly to cellular networks without the need for additional physical SIM cards. This simplifies the setup process and ensures consistent connectivity for IoT devices, paving the way for a more interconnected and efficient future.

Sustainability and Environmental Impact:

In addition to its convenience and functionality, eSIM technology also has environmental benefits. The elimination of physical SIM cards means a reduction in plastic waste generated by SIM card production and disposal. Moreover, with eSIM, users can easily reuse their existing devices for extended periods, reducing electronic waste generated by frequent device upgrades. These sustainability aspects make eSIM an appealing option for environmentally conscious consumers.

In conclusion, eSIM technology presents a paradigm shift in connectivity, offering enhanced flexibility, convenience, and global connectivity. Its space-saving design and seamless integration with IoT devices further amplify its potential impact. As we embrace the future of connectivity, eSIM emerges as a powerful tool that simplifies our digital lives while reducing environmental impact. With its numerous advantages, eSIM is poised to reshape the way we connect and interact in an increasingly interconnected world.

To upgrade to e-SIM please Contact us or visit to your nearest customer care center today.

Hormuud Telecom’s achievement of the globally recognized mobile money certification from the trade body (GSMA) paved the way for the operator to contribute to Somalia’s stability and focus on key growth areas.

One of the key areas that Hormuud Telecom is investing in is API technology. APIs, or application programming interfaces, are software tools that allow different applications to communicate and exchange data with each other.

As part of its services, this giant company offers various APIs, including SMS API, Mobile Money, and USSD APIs, which enable businesses and developers to integrate their services into their own applications and platforms, creating innovative solutions for various businesses and markets, and empowering them to create value-added services that can enhance their customer experience, increase efficiency, reduce costs, as well as automating their payment processes and recording transactions accurately, decreasing the risk of errors and saving time and resources.

Hormuud Telecom's API service can address some of the challenges and opportunities that Somalia faces in its economic development. For example, a business can utilize the company's mobile money API to allow customers to pay for goods and services via their mobile wallets, Additionally, an educational institution can leverage the SMS API to disseminate educational content and reminders to students, parents, and teachers, thereby enhancing learning outcomes and retention rates, especially for those with limited internet or electricity access. Moreover, a healthcare provider can benefit from Hormuud Telecom's IVR API by calling patients with health tips or reminders about appointments or medication, and outbreak notifications thereby improving health awareness and adherence among patients, particularly those with low literacy levels or living in remote areas.

The SMS API provided by Hormuud Telecom is widely used and popular among big local banks, NGOs, and money transfer companies in Somalia. The popularity of this service can be attributed to its reliability, speed, and cost-effectiveness, making it an essential tool for businesses and organizations looking to improve their communication with customers.

As evidence of the impact of the company’s API technology on the Somali economy, Mohamed Mohamud (Shiine), a young entrepreneur and founder of  SOOMAR- one of Somalia's leading e-commerce companies, stated, "This type of e-commerce enterprise would not have been possible without Hormuud Telecom's mobile money API (EVCplus)”, he also highlighted how the company's mobile money API has enabled innovative solutions for aspiring entrepreneurs and fintech firms.

These are just some examples of how the company’s API and the APIs technology, in general, can take part in the revival and development of the Somali economy. By providing these tools, Hormuud Telecom is enabling innovation and entrepreneurship among businesses and developers who can create solutions that meet the needs and aspirations of Somalis. As Somalia continues its journey toward peace and prosperity.

Ahmed Yuusef, CEO of Hormuud Telecom

Somalia’s community extends far beyond the boundaries of its nation. Our vast diaspora network has an estimated two million Somalis living abroad. And despite being far from their homeland, the Somali diaspora maintains strong ties to their nation.

Having briefly left Somalia whilst the civil war unfolded, I understand first-hand the importance of feeling connected to one’s homeland and loved ones. This experience is one of the reasons I lead Hormuud Telecommunications: to connect Somalis with each other, no matter where they are in the world.

An essential part of this connection is through remittances, which historically have been a vital source of Somalia’s resilience. According to the UN diaspora members send approximately $1.6 billion in annual remittances to support their community, equivalent to almost one-third of Somalia’s GDP. Our EVC Plus platform has been a major enabler of cash flow into the country, and I am proud to facilitate this.

But now, as Somalia enters a new chapter in its development, we’re seeing a new trend emerge, increasingly remittances are being used to support tech innovation in the country. The creation of Mogadishu’s first tech hub- iRise was created to help remittance-backed entrepreneurs to tap into new markets.

iRise is an innovation hub that connects entrepreneurs and innovators to collaborate, develop start-ups and create open spaces for idea incubation. One start-up that’s been created is Aamin Ambulance service, Somalia’s first 24-hour ambulance service in Mogadishu that use geospatial information to provide timely aid to emergency victims.

76% of all jobs in our economy result from entrepreneurial activity. With such great minds breathing life into our nation’s economy and solving real social issues, we must continue to encourage remittance-backed business, but also give tech entrepreneurs the tools to thrive at home.

Hormuud regularly hosts events such as the Somali Diaspora Network and supports initiatives such as the Global Somali Diaspora International Conference to create opportunities for diaspora members to network, learn about businesses in Somalia, and collaborate. Alongside Salaam Somali Bank, we’ve also launched our Entrepreneurs Fund, a three-year program aimed to cultivate young entrepreneurs’ potential by giving them start-up capital to convert their business ideas into reality.

Hormuud places high value on cultivating young entrepreneurs. The company was also founded by a small group of innovators and was supported by the Somali diaspora community. It has grown from a small group of shareholders to more than 12,000 members from the Somali diaspora in the United Kingdom, the United States, and Canada.

We are honoured to facilitate the diaspora’s link to Somalia’s tech entrepreneurs and also champion them at home. By supporting innovation in Somalia, we can continue to build a brighter future for our nation and its people.

Traveling to different countries can be an exciting experience, but it can also be challenging to stay connected with your loved ones back home. With Hormuud Dalmar Roaming, you can use your own SIM card and stay connected no matter where you go.

In this blog post, we'll explain how the Dalmar roaming service works and how it can benefit you during your travels.

What is Dalmar Roaming?

Dalmar Roaming is a service that enables you to seamlessly utilize your Hormuud SIM card while traveling overseas by manually searching for local networks in the country you are in and connecting your phone to the strongest signal available. With Dalmar Roaming, you can easily make and receive calls, as well as send SMS messages and manage your essential services like EVCplus, Deeqtoon and Salaam Somali Bank account.

How much does it cost?

International roaming outside of Somalia does incur a small additional fee. The rates for Dalmar Roaming service are very reasonable, and you can easily check them before you travel.

How to sign up for Dalmar Roaming

To use the Dalmar Roaming service, you need to activate international roaming on your phone. The process may differ depending on your phone model, but generally, you need to follow these steps:

For Android phones:

1. Go to SETTINGS.
2. Select CONNECTIONS.
3. Select MOBILE NETWORKS.
4. Tap NETWORK OPERATORS.
5. Select one from the list of companies operating in the country you are in.

For iPhone phones:

1. Go to SETTINGS.
2. Select CELLULAR.
3. Tap NETWORK SELECTION.
4. Turn OFF AUTOMATIC.
5. You will see the names of the companies in the country you are in. Select one.

 

Benefits of using Dalmar Roaming

The main benefit of using Dalmar Roaming is that you can stay connected with your loved ones while you travel. You can use your own phone number, and your friends and family can reach you easily while managing your essential services like like EVCplus, Deeqtoon and Salaam Somali Bank account. You don't need to worry about buying a new SIM card or finding a Wi-Fi hotspot to stay connected. Additionally, using the Dalmar Roaming service is cost-effective, and you can easily check the rates before you travel.

In conclusion, Hormuud Dalmar Roaming is an excellent service that allows you to use your own SIM card while you travel. It's easy to activate, cost-effective and offers you the convenience of staying connected with your loved ones wherever you go. If you're planning to travel soon, we highly recommend that you activate Dalmar Roaming before you go. Happy travels!

 

Don't miss this opportunity to travel with your SIM card around the globe!

Sign up for Dalmar Roaming service today.

 

 

Halima Abdulle Samatar and her four children were displaced to a humanitarian camp in Dolow, a town in the southern Gedo region of Somalia, when all sixty of her goats died due to the drought in Somalia.

The Horn of Africa is enduring the worst drought in 40 years impacting over 8 million Somalis – almost half of the population. In response, Hormuud created the Humanitarian portal to continue to empower Somali citizens, ensuring the most vulnerable have access to aid.

Halima and nearly one million other Somalis were forced to flee their homes last year. Now, more than ever, Somalia urgently needs humanitarian assistance to avoid an even more acute famine.

Although entire communities are directly affected by the drought, mothers and children are adversely impacted. Mobile money has been used as a vehicle for aid relief for mothers in Somalia. Like many, Halima Abdulle Samatar and her four children, were displaced when all her livestock were killed by the drought. She, however, was among those who benefited from mobile money disbursements, which she used to cover for her family’s food and health expenses.

Having the freedom to control her spending allowed her to save the money she used to start her own business and rebuild her life.

Similarly, when Malyun, a mother in her postpartum period, arrived at the humanitarian camp with her family of ten, mobile money allowed her to virtually receive assistance without having to physically collect it in person. With the aid she received, she was able to independently provide for her and her family purchasing beds, school essentials and food.

Unlike mobile money usual forms of aid relief, such as food donations, are limited in their ability to provide sustainable solutions that transcend immediate need. Hormuud recognised this growing need for an innovative method; integrated in its mobile money wallet, EVC Plus. The Humanitarian Portal ensures that cash transfers can be distributed in an efficient, traceable manner from anywhere else in the world to reach Somalia’s most vulnerable.

Traditional forms of aid relief, like food donations, have limitations in offering sustainable solutions beyond immediate needs. Recognizing this gap, Hormuud created an innovative solution by integrating its mobile money wallet, EVC Plus, with the Humanitarian Portal. This allows for efficient and traceable cash transfers to be made from anywhere in the world to reach Somalia's most vulnerable populations.

This flexibility ensures individuals are given the choice and agency to ensure their personal needs are met. This digital pathway is an instrument to support drought victims in their journey to becoming active economic citizens.

Mobile money puts power back into the hands of those that have suffered a great loss. The discreet nature of this form of aid preserves the individual’s dignity and empowers them to take back ownership over their lives. This digital pathway strives to support crisis victims’ transition to a life of normalcy and self-reliance.

Together with international organisations, we have the power to lift impacted Somalis from impoverished conditions and claim better lives for all Somalis. 

 

Caalamka Ganacsiga ee macaamiilku udubdhexaadka u yahay waxaa lagu tartamaa daryeelka iyo qancinta, si loo hanto macaamiilka, loona adkeeyo xiriirka kala dhexeeya shirkadda. Tiknoolajiyaddu waxay kaalin weyn ka qaadatay fududeynta xiriirkan, waxaana la soo saaray habab badan oo lagula xiriiri karo macaamiisha. Cilmibaarisyadu waxay xaqiijiyeen in farriin-qolaadeedku uu yahay habka ugu fudud, uguna hubantida badan ee farriin lagu gaarsiin karo macaamiisha.

Annaga oo ka jawaabeysa baahida ay shirkadaha iyo hay'aduhu u qabaan in ay la xiriiraan macaamiishooda, ayaan u diyaarinnay adeegga My SMS, oo u sahlaya in ay ilbiriqsi gudihiis farriin-wadareed ku gaarsiiyaan macaamiishooda, si looga gudbo habkii hore ee dalbanayay in macamiisha mid mid loogu diro farriinta, taas oo dalbanaysay waqti iyo qarash badan.

My SMS waxaan u diyaarinnay shirkadaha, jaamacadaha, isbitaallada, bangiyada iyo hay'adaha baahida u qaba in ay farriin-wadareed gaarsiiso kumanaan qof. Waxaad macaamiishaada sida wadajir ah ugu diri kartaa warbixin, 'ogaysiis, qiima-dhimis, casuumaadaha iyo hambalyada. Waxaad ku suuqgeyn kartaa badeeco ama adeeg cusub. Waxaad sidoo kale macaamiishaada ku xusuusin kartaa ballamaha iyo bixinta deymaha ku taagan. 

My SMS kulansaday degdegsiimo, qiimo jaban iyo adeegsigiisa oo fudud. Waxaan hal mar ku shubi kartaa liiska macaamiishaada. Hal mar ayaadna dhambaal ugu wada diri kartaa. Waxaad sidoo kale liiska u kala qeybin kartaa guruubyo, si aad koox kasta ugu dirto farriin u gaar ah oo ku habboon. Wuxuuna leeyahay qeyb aad ka heli karto warbixinta dadka ay farriintaadii gaartay. 

Adigoo adeegsanaya My SMS, $25 ayaad hal mar farriin ku gaarsiin kartaa 1,666 qof. $50 ayaad dhambaal ugu diri kartaa 5,000 oo ruux. Halka aad $100 kaliya farriin-wadareed ku gaarsiin karto 13,333 qof. 

Haddaba, si aan kuugu fududeyno shaqada, oo aan kuugu baajinno waqti iyo juhdi badan oo kaaga bixi lahaa in aad farriin-wadareed gaarsiiso kumannaan qof, furo, oo farriimahaaga ku dirso My SMS, oo ah habka ugu fudud ee aad ku gaari karto macaamiishaada.

Fadlan fur link-gan, si aad u furato ama faahfaahin dheeri ah uga hesho My SMS:
https://business.hormuud.com 

Today, customer satisfaction and engagement are key factors in competing for customers and enhancing the relationship between a company and its clients.

There has been a tremendous amount of technological advancement that has enabled this relationship to flourish, and various methods have been developed in order to reach customers. Studies have shown that mass messaging is the easiest and most reliable way to communicate with customers.

In response to the needs of companies and organizations to communicate with their clients, we have created My SMS, a service that allows them to send mass messages to their customers in a matter of seconds, saving time and money compared to the previous method of sending individual messages.

My SMS is designed for companies, schools, universities, hospitals, banks, and organizations that need to send bulk messages such as important information, product announcements, appointment reminders, and discount notifications to thousands of people in a matter of seconds.

This service is fast, affordable, and easy to use. You will only have to upload your customer list once and send messages to all of them with just one click. Furthermore, you may segment your list into groups and send personalized messages to each group. The service also provides reports on who has received your messages.

Thousands of your clients can be reached at an extremely low cost. For only $25, you can send a message to 1,666 people, 5,000 people for $50, and 13,333 people for only $100.

Maximize your customer communication with My SMS bulk messaging service to save time and effort in sending mass messages to thousands of people.

Revolutionize Your Customer Communication with My SMS – Your absolute Bulk Messaging Solution

To subscribe to my SMS service, please go to http://business.hormuud.com 

In today's fast-paced world, it can be difficult to find time to visit customer service sites. However, advancements in technology have enabled the creation of all-in-one applications that provide customers with a personalized and efficient experience.
The Hormuud App is one such application that offers a seamless experience by providing access to all our services in one place.
With the Hormuud App, you can easily purchase internet and voice packages, including Anfac Plus, Mobile data, MIFI, FTTH, and ADSLplus. You can even send your remaining internet balance to your relatives or friends. But that's not all - Hormuud App also allows you to subscribe to valuable VAS services such as Shaafi, Kayd, and many more.
Hormuud App is incredibly convenient and easy to use. Simply download it from the Play store or App store, and you'll be able to access all of these great features in no time. And once you've tried it out, be sure to share the Hormuud App with your friends and family so they can enjoy the benefits as well.
So why wait? Download the Hormuud App today and enjoy it!

Download now from Play/App store
https://bit.ly/Hormuud-App-Playstore 
https://bit.ly/Hormuud-App-Appstore 

FTTH is a revolutionary internet service that uses fiber optic cables to deliver lightning-fast speeds straight to your home, office, or business premises. With speeds that exceed your expectations and a landline service included, FTTH is the perfect choice for those who demand the best in internet and communication services.

One of the biggest benefits of our FTTH is its super-fast speeds with a full duplex in which you'll be able to stream, download, and upload with ease. And because it's a fiber optic service, you can expect consistent, reliable performance with minimal downtime.

FTTH isn't just for individual users - it's also an ideal solution for businesses. With speeds of up to 15 Mbps, you'll be able to handle multiple tasks and support multiple users without experiencing any lag or slowdown.

As of 15 December 2022, we have increased the speed of our fiber to the home Internet (FTTH) & ADSL+ packages from 4 Mbps to 8 Mbps, 6 Mbps to 10 Mbps, and 10 Mbps to 15 Mbps, while remaining at the same price.

Our FTTH packages are now affordably priced to fit any budget. For just $30 per month, you can enjoy an 8 Mbps package with your family and friends. Or, for a little more, you can upgrade to a lightning-fast 10 Mbps package for just $50 per month. And for the ultimate in speed and performance, our 15 Mbps package is available for just $90 per month. Furthermore, we provide discounted packages for students attending universities in the country.

Besides the FTTH packages mentioned above, we also provide immense unlimited internet packages tailored specifically for large enterprises, government institutions, and local & international NGOs.

FTTH internet is a powerful and reliable broadband connection that offers blazing-fast speeds and a host of other benefits.

Don't settle for slow, unreliable internet any longer. Upgrade to FTTH and enjoy super-fast speeds, consistent performance, and a landline service all in one package. Get in touch today to learn more about our FTTH packages and prices.

For the last twenty years, Hormuud Telecom has contributed significantly to Somalia’s growth and development. Following the civil war, our business established itself as a leading advocate and supporter within the community.

As the nation’s first telecom operator, we built vital infrastructure that pathed the way for enhanced connectivity. Where two decades ago, just 1% of the Somalian population had access to phones, today, nine out of ten Somalis own a mobile phone, and 70% of the population is connected to a telephone network.

In our mission to promote financial inclusion and drive economic empowerment, Hormuud attained Somalia’s first-ever mobile money licence through EVC Plus. Mobile money has since played a crucial role in the nation’s progress.

What began with 98% of counterfeit shillings and widely inaccessible banking systems 20 years ago; has been transformed into a nation with 70% of mobile money penetration. Now, only 6% of the population uses cash, and Hormuud continues to push the country towards being the second African country to achieve 100% financial inclusion. One day, I hope we will become Africa’s first cashless society.

Besides supporting economic activity and entrepreneurial action, EVC Plus has also used mobile money to reach the inaccessible and provide immediate assistance to victims of dire famine. Hormuud stands as the cheapest mobile internet provider in Africa to further encourage digital access and fully accommodate the needs of the Somali people.

EVC Plus exemplifies Hormuud’s sustained commitment to uplifting the community, taking account of the challenging realities most Somalis face while striving for elevated standards to remain competitive players on the global stage.

In the face of social and economic instability, we will continue to craft new avenues for economic expansion, entrepreneurialism, and further education. Through platforms such as Buruuj Technical School and the Hormuud Salaam Foundation, our ambition to create platforms that foster talent, promote learning and sustainably provide for the growing needs of the Somali people remains as strong as ever.

                                             

Hormuud Telecom has won the "Changing Lives Award" which is presented at the #AfricaTechFestival2022 on November 9th in Cape Town, South Africa.

This annual award is given to companies that play a role in changing the lives of their communities for the better. With its EVC plus service, Hormuud Telecom has made it possible for NGOs to send money aid to those hardest to reach at a touch of a button.

Millions of Somalis have been displaced by severe droughts, and are on the verge of famine. Aid has become a lifeline for many Somalis. With only 15% of the population having a bank account, reaching individuals migrating from drought-affected areas has been difficult.

However, Many IDPs use Hormuud Telecom's EVC Plus mobile money service, which is free at the point of use and is used by over seven in ten Somalis (76%).

Hormuud Telecom’s humanitarian portal provides a traceable, efficient, and timely way to distribute cash assistance via mobile money. The service is regulated by the Central Bank of Somalia and complies with international standards. Considering many humanitarian organizations left Somalia during Covid-19, Hormuud is enabling organizations to donate from anywhere in the world, continuing to access and help beneficiaries. 

This portal is used by international aid donors, as well as grassroot organizations, and is an effective solution for reaching those affected by the drought. EVC Plus runs on both smart and basic cell phones. So, in creating a digitally inclusive platform for humanitarian organizations to use, mothers can now purchase food and water to keep their families alive. They can also share aid with their relatives at no cost. Since 2020, the humanitarian portal has seen a surge in donations of 50%, demonstrating its crucial role in providing aid to one of Somalia's most vulnerable populations in their hour of need.

Finally, Hormuud Telecom's award today joins the company's ever-growing list of international awards and certifications, which includes ISO, GSMA, and GLOMO.

Kadib burburkii dowladdii dhexe ee 1991, Soomaaliya waxa ay gashay xaalad mugdi ah, waxaana mar qura la waayey adeegyadii asaasiga ahaa oo ay dowladda dhexe bixin jirtey.

Sawirka laga haystay Soomaaliya 30 kii sano ee la soo dhaafay wuxuu ahaa dal wax waliba ay ka burbureen, balse waxaa xaqiiqa ah in dhanka kale ay dadka Soomaaliyeed muujiyeen adkaysi iyo isku tashi.

Wadanka oo ku jira xaaladaas murugsan ayaa  waxaa u kacay jiil u istaagay badbaadinta dadka iyo dalka, kuwaasi oo bilaabay adeegyada aasaasgsiga ah sida tacliinta, caafimaadka, isgaarsiinta, maaliyadda & tamarta, tusaalana u noqday muwaadiniinta kale.

Jiilkaas oo isugu jiray macalimiin, dhakhaatiir, iyo ganacsato ayaa waxa  ay u soo dhabar adaygeen duruufihii adkaa ee uu dalkeennu soo maray, iyadoo 30 sano ka dib maanta  la guranayo mirihii ay abuureen, walina ay u taaganyihiin in ay dalkooda si hagar la’aan ah ugu sii adeegaan.

Sanadkan 2022 oo ku began 20 sano guurada aasaaska shirkadda Hormuud Telecom ayaa shirkaddu waxay xil gaar ah iska saartay in la agaasimo munaasabad loogu magac daray Guulaystayaasha Soomaaliyeed laguna bogaadinayo shakhsiyaadkii iyo hay’adihii u soo dhabar adeygay, guushana usoo hooyey dalkooda 20 kii sano ee la soo dhaafay.

Munaasabaddan oo socon doonta muda 2 maalin ah oo ku beegan 19 & 20-ka bisha October ayaa waxa ay shirkaddu ugu talagashay in dhammaan bulshada qaybeheeda kala duwan ka  soo qayb galaan iyada oo lagu soo bandhigi doonto fursado qiimo dhimis, ku dhawaaqid adeegyo cusub iyo bandhig carweed ay ka qeyb galayaan shirkadaha kala duwan ee hoos yimaada Hormuud telecom.

Founded in 2002 and built by Somalis for Somalis, Hormuud Telecom has grown from humble beginnings to become one of the leading purpose-driven companies in the Horn of Africa.

As Hormuud Telecom commemorates its 20^th anniversary, we take a look back at some of the company's most significant accomplishments; the following are the top Nine of the company's greatest achievements:

1. Over 12,000 dedicated shareholders
2.  

Hormuud Telecom was founded by just two hundred and eighty-three shareholders who come together and laid down a vision to transform the lives of their communities and to connect Somalis worldwide through a variety of products and services.

Over the course of 20 years, Hormuud Telecom became the largest company in Somalia with the highest number of shareholders from 283 to 12,000, owned entirely by Somali businessmen.

2. Strengthening Somalia's economy through the creation of new jobs
3.  

There are many factors that need to be in place for a country to succeed economically. One of those factors is employment, throughout the past 20 years; Hormuud Telecom has created thousands of jobs for Somalis in a country characterized by severe unemployment and a lack of conducive working conditions. This 20 years old company employs over 35,000 Somalis, making it the largest employer in Somalia.

Hormuud Telecom recognizes that its employees are its most valuable asset, so it offers a wide range of employee benefit and welfare programs designed to ensure the safety and well-being of employees. Such as decent, livable salaries that are commission-based. Healthcare coverage, 120 days of paid maternity leave, four weeks of paid annual leave. Yearly bonuses based on individual and company performance etc.

With the existence of a dire unemployment situation in Somalia, Hormuud telecom is helping thousands of people find satisfying livelihoods. Tens of thousands of agents sell the company's services and products to end users.

3. Providing reliable services to over millions of people and installing over 800 towers
4.  

Hormuud Telcom is renowned throughout the southern and central parts of Somalia as the leading provider of reliable and timely services to more than four million people on a regular basis and is also known for its introduction of the latest technologies to those communities.

During the past two decades, Hormuud Telecom has managed to deliver a world-class telecommunications service to every place with 50 households in the south and central parts of Somalia, and has installed more than 800 towers or antennas, making it the country's largest network.

4. The first company in the country to provide internet services
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In 2009 Hormuud Telecom introduced the country's first type of mobile phone internet called GPRS and it continues to bring the latest innovations to the country ever since. During the past few decades, Hormuud Telecom has been a pioneer in providing the latest Internet services throughout the country and has consistently provided the most advanced technology used by the most developed countries in the world.

According to a survey conducted in 2020 by the British technology research firm Cable, Somalia overtook many African countries with regard to internet accessibility despite the political and security challenges, and is now considered as one of the countries in the world with affordable internet, ranking number one in Africa, and seventh worldwide in 2020.

5. Somalia's most popular mobile money platform
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The introduction of EVC Plus in 2011 is yet another landmark achievement for Hormuud telecom and a reason for you to celebrate our 20^th anniversary with us. With EVC Plus is a unique option to send and receive mobile money, and it is the country's most popular mobile money wallet.

Over 67% of Somalis, especially the most vulnerable communities, use mobile money technology as the sole payment system. And it has had a positive impact on small-scale businesses in the country, mainly run by female vendors and entrepreneurs, sparing them much-needed time and money.

EVC Plus differs from many other mobile money platforms in Africa by being completely free at the point of use, and it has several key features such as a person-to-person money transfer, a person-to-merchant/business money transfer, airtime/data top-up, account management, and many more.

A year after Hormuud telecom was awarded a license by the National Communications Authority (NCA), Hormuud's EVCPLUS was granted a license by the Somali Central Bank in 2021. This licensing was granted on the basis that Hormuud's EVCPLUS adhered to the Somali Central Bank's financial regulations.

6. The country’s first fiber optic link
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In 2013, Hormuud Telecom signed an agreement with the African fiber optic company Liquid Telecom, to connect to the company's 17,000 km (10,500 mile) network of terrestrial cables crossing 11 African countries.

Bringing the fiber optic internet cables to Somalia was another landmark achievement for Hormuud Telecom, which resulted in Somalia having the cheapest internet in Africa.

7. Over 500 customer service sites
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Over the past 20 years, Hormuud Telecom has established hundreds of customer service centers, staffed by highly trained employees that are dedicated to providing excellent service to customersThe company began with only 16 customer service sites to meet the communication needs of the Somali population. However, after over 2 decades of expansion, Hormuud telecom now has more than 500 customer service centers, which people can get all the company's various services and products.

8. First Somali corporate entity to achieve (ISO) certification
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As a result of A hard-fought eight-year effort, Hormuud Telecom received the International Organization for Standardization certification in 2020, becoming Somalia's first private company to be (ISO) certified. This recognition allows the company to serve its customers globally and conduct business with international companies.

Hormuud Telecom has attained a globally recognized mobile money certification from trade body the GSMA, an achievement that paves the way for the operator to contribute to Somalia’s stability and focus on key growth areas.

9. Mobile money certification from the GSMA
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During March 2022, Hormuud Telecom received a prestigious Mobile Money Certification from the global mobile network operators' industry body (GSMA) for its EVC Plus mobile money platform, which currently serves 8.8 million active subscribers, making Hormuud the first Somali company to receive the GLOMO Award.

A total of 300 criteria were assessed during Hormuud's accreditation process, including safeguarding of funds, fraud prevention, system security, and data privacy.

This award recognizes Hormuud Telecom's company social responsibility efforts as it supports the needs of emergency humanitarian situations in Somalia through mobile innovation.

In conclusion, Hormuud Telecom has been a major contributor to the country's economic development over the past two decades by investing in key sectors, rebuilding critical infrastructure, and creating employment opportunities throughout the country. Furthermore, Hormuud Telecom guarantees that, in the next twenty years, it will continue to offer superior products and services to its customers and hopes to generate new ideas and opportunities for the Somali people.

The recent GSMA report puts Africa at the forefront of the mobile money revolution. In 2021, the industry processed over $1 trillion in transactions — 70% of which were in Africa alone. In Somalia, digital payments have transformed our economy. Not least because of the scale of mobile money proliferation.

Approximately 155 million mobile money transactions are recorded in Somalia per month and over 70 percent of adult Somalis use mobile money services. This is not by chance. Since its inception, Hormuud carefully considered mobile money’s evolution and so designed our services to meet on-the-ground realities.

We knew that in a rapidly rebuilding country, with so much potential, we needed a way to safely transact in an environment where 98% of our currency is counterfeit. We have always been intentional in growing mobile money access — understanding how we can make this as easy as possible for the business community, as well as families and individuals.

This is why we introduced a mobile money service (EVC Plus) that is free at the point of use. This was, and continues to be, a key part of our business strategy. With 76 percent of Somalia’s population being unbanked, we believe that mobile money allows those who have been financially excluded to access the formal economy.

Continuing to chart the road ahead for digital payments is deeply intertwined with our wider development aims. Access to formal markets and financial institutions is on the rise — but we need to provide more digital infrastructure alongside fostering mobile money usage. Somali users have access to the cheapest data in Africa, and the third cheapest in the world. But without increased access this is meaningless.

Looking forward, while data is not currently needed to facilitate mobile money transfers, what our services (like the cheap mobile internet) have proven is that increasing rural 4G and smartphone access is crucial. Like the proliferation of mobile money, this increase in data access will unlock new potential for our customers. This will create a wider financial ecosystem of services and provide a multiplicity of benefits from e-healthcare to online education tools to training and skills provision.

We are excited to continue playing a role in, and continuing to prioritise, Somali innovation.

Access to the internet is a human right. It is an essential instrument to developing nations that enables vital services such as aid and international remittances, whilst underpinning day-to-day business and educational activities.

Since Hormuud Telecom’s humble beginnings, our mission has been to bring trusted telecoms and broadband services to the four corners of Somalia. Connecting Somalis to one another, and the world, is essential to building our budding modern economy.

We began expanding our 4G network capacity in 2015 in partnership with Somalia’s Ministry of Telecommunications. As a result, they estimate that 70% of Somalia’s 15 million population now have access to 4G internet.

For a long time, this 4G access has been concentrated in our metropolitan areas. Somalis in rural areas have not had the same level of service as their big-city compatriots. As such, 30% of Hormuud’s 3.6 million customers still rely on our 2G network. We plan to change this.

We’re delighted to announce Hormuud’s ambition to bring broadband speed, 4G data, to every Somali citizen by 2023. Increasing access to 4G internet is critical to Somalia achieving its goal of becoming a cashless economy. Hormuud’s aim for total 4G expansion in two years is in line with the government’s National ICT Policy which pledges to reach total 4G coverage in Somalia in-between 2024–2025. This expansion project will be carried out in partnership with the Ministry of Telecommunications.

The average Hormuud data user consumes 5GB of data monthly, up from a national average of around 1–2GB a year ago. We predict that this is largely because of the pandemic. As we turn the corner on these trying times, we anticipate data usage to continue to increase. Our network expansion will respond to the growing demand for high-speed internet across the country.

On top of providing an excellent broadband service, we are incredibly proud to offer our customers the lowest data prices in Africa, with 1GB starting at $0.18. In contrast, the same amount of data starts at $1.05 and $2.44 in neighboring Kenya and Ethiopia.

Access to the 4G network is fundamental to Hormuud’s ambitions to provide ‘inclusive and sustainable economic growth’ for Somalis in line with the UN’s SDGs. We are proud to have long played a leading role in bringing Somalis online. This expansion project will help develop our economy and continue to grow our connections with one another.

Somalia’s financial systems have improved and securitised exponentially over the last 10 years. The country is now on the cusp of becoming the world’s first cashless society, a reality that remains far off for developed economies such as the US and UK.

The introduction and adoption of mobile money over the past 10 years, culminating in Hormuud Telecoms being awarded the country’s first ever ‘mobile money licence’ by the Central Bank, is a mark of pride. Customer support of Hormuud’s EVC Plus mobile money payment system has propelled Somalia to world leader status in the use of ‘mobile money’ by population.

The latest reform by the Somali Central Bank introduced a central payments system which connects lenders, making payments easier for citizens everywhere. This means that the untapped market of Somali business is a ripe opportunity, at least for those savvy enough to seize this moment. This comes on top of debt-relief deal the Somali government secured with the World Bank and the International Monetary Fund last year.

Somalis and the Somali diaspora can now have confidence that when they carry out business in Somalia, they will have the same financial power they do elsewhere. The reforms and the security of Hormuud’s payment system is creating a Somalia where soon working abroad is a career perk, not a business necessity.

Proven domestic confidence in our improved financial infrastructure also showcases Somalia’s potential for foreign investment. This is not to say that investments are not without risk. Thirty years after our civil war, we are still dealing with protracted security issues, producing the sort of headlines in international press to discourage outside investment. All investments are risky, it is the nature of business. Investment in Somalia remains riskier than in most places, but with risk could come higher rewards.

60% of Somalia’s population is under 30 years old. They are scrappy, hardworking, and eager to grow their skills and better themselves and their country. They are tech savvy; 85% of Somalis use mobile money (compared to fewer than four in ten in Nigeria, Africa’s biggest economy, and far more than the populations of the UK and US). A World Bank report referred to Somalis as having a “well-known entrepreneurial spirit,” this cultural tendency in addition to our securitised financial systems should encourage foreign investment.

Despite mobile penetration, until this month Somalia’s financial set up meant that lenders could only interact with each other on an extremely limited basis. This made payments needlessly difficult and reinforced a reliance on the US dollar while holding back businesses looking to grow across the country. Thankfully, this is now poised to change.

Somalia received no foreign investment for a 20-year period up until 2013. Early investors in Somalia understood, to see it simply as the headlines portray it is short-sighted. Somalia’s economy will likely expand 2.9% this year, according to the IMF. The amalgamation of this and Somalia’s new payments system should propel foreign investors forward into the state with confidence.

Hormuud is proud to work with the government to provide the foundations necessary for domestic and foreign investment, raising Somalia’s standing on the world stage. Our focus continues to be on enriching the lives of Somalis and building conditions in which Somali entrepreneurs can thrive.