Somalia rolls out US-backed biometric border system to tackle human trafficking

Somalia has launched a new U.S.-backed biometric border control system aimed at curbing human trafficking, preventing irregular migration, and enhancing international travel security.

The system, known as Personal Identification Secure Comparison and Evaluation System (PISCES) screening platform will be fully operational at Somalia’s major ports of entry in an initiative that is part of a broader package of reforms supported by the U.S. government to strengthen Somalia’s border security and migration management capabilities.

The announcement came at the close of a four-day technical training program in Mogadishu, led by U.S. experts and supported by the U.S. Embassy.

The training equipped Somali immigration officers with skills to operate PISCES, manage real-time traveler data, and flag identity fraud, watchlist matches, and suspicious movement patterns.

“This is not just about technology—it’s about protecting our citizens and rebuilding public trust,” said Mustafa Duhulow, Director General of Somalia’s Immigration and Citizenship Agency (ICA).

“Thanks to the support of the U.S. Government, Somalia is now using one of the world’s most advanced border systems to detect threats, prevent trafficking, and manage migration with dignity and security.”

The PISCES system allows Somali authorities to screen travelers against global watchlists, verify documents, and track cross-border movements in real time.

Officials say it significantly enhances Somalia’s ability to intercept terror suspects, identify traffickers, and dismantle smuggling networks operating in the Horn of Africa.

Further, Somalia has processed a third-generation polycarbonate e-passport embedded with a biometric chip and advanced anti-forgery features.

In addition, a new e-Visa platform now enables foreign nationals to apply online for visas, ensuring pre-screened and secure entry into the country.

“These upgrades mark Somalia’s entry into the global identity and mobility framework,” said DG Mustafe. “They benefit not only our citizens but also our international partners who rely on credible, secure systems.”

The deployment of PISCES marks an expansion of the longstanding U.S.–Somalia partnership, which has included counter-terrorism, intelligence, and military cooperation. The new civilian-focused collaboration is led by the U.S. State Department and implemented in partnership with ICA Somalia.

“Somalia joins the global community in embracing one of the most effective border security mechanisms available today,” said a U.S. Embassy official in Mogadishu.

“These systems save lives, stop crimes, and build resilient institutions. This is what meaningful partnership looks like.”

Strategically located at the crossroads of Africa and the Middle East, Somalia has long been vulnerable to exploitation by traffickers and militant networks. The new systems aim to close those vulnerabilities by enabling a real-time, integrated response to cross-border threats.

The reforms are also part of Somalia’s broader national agenda to digitize public services, professionalize border institutions, and align with international standards on migration and human rights.

ICA Somalia is already working closely with INTERPOL, IOM, and UNODC, and recently signed an MoU to integrate Interpol’s systems into national immigration controls.