Mogadishu, 15th July 2025 – The “Italy–Somalia Public Administration – Training of Somali State Officials” (PAIS-FUS) programme was officially launched today in Mogadishu. This three-year initiative is funded by the Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation (MAECI) through the Italian Agency for Development Cooperation (AICS), with a contribution of €1.5 million. It is realized by the University of Palermo in partnership with the Somali National University and the Tor Vergata Foundation of Rome.
The project aims to strengthen the competencies of Somali civil servants through the establishment of an Executive Master in Public Administration Management, offering two curricula focused on the strategic sectors of health and justice. The programme will train 140 public officials and 10–15 university lecturers, ensuring the sustainability of the training process.
PAIS-FUS is part of a broader framework of bilateral cooperation, in which Italy is currently engaged in Somalia with initiatives in the sectors of health, education, agriculture, strategic infrastructure, and the private sector, for a total investment of approximately €70 million.
Fabio Minniti, Head of AICS Office in Nairobi, emphasized: “This initiative represents another milestone in the historical and strategic relationship between Italian Cooperation and Somalia. Supporting institutions, training, and human capital development is at the core of Italy’s cooperation approach.”
Ambassador Daccò Coppi highlighted how cooperation between academic and research institutions is “a long-standing component of Italy’s engagement in Somalia,” adding that “the programme aims to strengthen governance in Somali institutions and complements several ongoing initiatives across different sectors, contributing to the country’s stabilization and development,
including economic development.”
The launch ceremony saw significant participation from Somali institutions, demonstrating strong interest in the project. Health Minister Ali Haji Adan and Education Minister Farah Sheikh Abdulqadir expressed their gratitude to the Italian Government and recalled the deep ties between Italy and Somalia. In closing, Justice Minister Scek Mohamed Mohallim Hassan stated: “This
programme has been designed based on the needs and priorities of the Somali government, the population, and relevant institutions. I am truly grateful for the launch of this important initiative.”
Group Photo at the launch event in Mogadishu.