Somalia urges digital infrastructure investment at Korea-Africa finance forum

The call to action was delivered on Wednesday by Somalia’s Finance Minister, Bihi Iman Egeh, during high-level deliberations in Seoul. Addressing fellow African finance ministers, dignitaries, and development authorities, Egeh articulated a clear vision for the continent's technological trajectory. As detailed in reporting by Allafrica, the discussions focused heavily on closing persistent infrastructure deficits that threaten to leave emerging markets behind as global technology rapidly evolves.

"Africa’s ambition should not be limited to adopting artificial intelligence"

Bihi Iman Egeh, Finance Minister, via Shabellemedia

According to the official remarks, simply acquiring or implementing sophisticated software solutions without underlying structural support is insufficient. Egeh maintained that nations require reliable energy networks, extensive fibre-optic connectivity, and secure data infrastructure, alongside resilient financial institutions built upon strict principles of accountability. Such comprehensive development forms the bedrock required for sustainable digital growth and broader economic expansion across the continent.

Beyond technical requirements, the Somali delegation drew attention to the nation's unique geographic positioning. Egeh highlighted Somalia's strategic location and its rapidly growing digital economy, framing the country as a prospective digital gateway designed to bridge the African continent with lucrative global markets. Enhanced digital and physical connectivity is viewed by domestic officials as a crucial catalyst for unlocking foreign investment and solidifying the nation's participation in broader international commerce.

Regional cooperation also featured prominently in the minister's address. Egeh underlined the necessity of deeper integration via the Horn of Africa Initiative. Strengthening economic ties among neighboring territories is seen as a vital mechanism to accelerate mutual growth, foster cooperative trade ventures, and create attractive new environments for investors looking toward the region.

The multilateral platform itself marks a notable longevity milestone this year, celebrating two decades since its inception in 2006. Over the past twenty years, the Korea-Africa Finance Cooperation framework has evolved into a vital nexus connecting sovereign governments, corporate enterprises, and specialized development institutions to foster partnerships and identify lucrative investment avenues.

South Korea has consistently positioned itself as a key technological and developmental ally for African states. Bilateral and multilateral cooperation spans a diverse array of sectors, encompassing foundational infrastructure construction, comprehensive digitalisation efforts, financial system strengthening, and broader industrial development initiatives.

For Somalia, the outcomes of the Seoul meetings carry considerable weight as the nation pursues parallel tracks of domestic modernization and international re-engagement. Officials maintain that successfully securing targeted investments in digital and physical infrastructure will directly translate into accelerated public service modernization and elevated regional trade integration.

What to watch next

• Continued bilateral negotiations between African finance ministries and South Korean development institutions following the conclusion of the Seoul conference.
• Further announcements regarding financing mechanisms and accountability frameworks for fibre-optic and energy projects under the Horn of Africa Initiative.
• Progress reports on Somalia's domestic digital economy expansion and public service modernization efforts.