East Africa Somali Awards celebrate cross-border business impact and regional integration

The inaugural East Africa Somali Awards held in Nairobi brought together business leaders, entrepreneurs, and dignitaries from across the region to recognize the transformative role of Somali-led investments in East Africa’s economic growth.

The event, attended by Somali government officials and regional business stakeholders, celebrated individuals and businesses making significant strides in sectors such as logistics, technology, and hospitality. Organizers highlighted the role of Somali entrepreneurs—both in East Africa and the diaspora—in fostering innovation, creating jobs, and strengthening cross-border economic ties.

Somalia’s Ambassador to Kenya, Jabril Abdulle, emphasized the importance of economic collaboration in uniting diverse communities and unlocking regional prosperity.

He noted that Somalia’s formal entry into the East African Community (EAC) in 2023 marks a historic opportunity for the Somali people to contribute meaningfully to the region’s development.

“The Somali people are defined by resilience and a deep-rooted entrepreneurial spirit,” Amb. Abdulle said, adding that this spirit is evident from the tech startups in Mogadishu to vibrant enterprises in Nairobi’s Eastleigh.

Founder of the awards, Ridwan Yusuf, said the event provides a vital platform for recognizing successful businesses and fostering networking opportunities to accelerate economic impact across borders.

Echoing this, BBS Mall CEO Munir Ahmed urged regional governments to create a more enabling environment for entrepreneurship through improved infrastructure and favorable policy frameworks. His sentiments were shared by Lions Villas CEO Bishar Dhere, who called on business owners to embrace technological advancements such as Artificial Intelligence, noting its potential to enhance operations rather than displace jobs.