Hormuud’s Caaqil AI Breaks Barriers: Smart Knowledge without Smartphones or Internet

MOGADISHU, Somalia — Hormuud Telecom, a leading telecommunications provider in Somalia, has introduced Caaqil, an artificial intelligence-powered service designed to deliver instant knowledge to users across the country, the company announced.

Caaqil, meaning "wise" in Somali, allows users to ask questions via SMS by dialing *1000# and sending a query to 1000. Within seconds, they receive a response in Somali, covering topics such as health, agriculture, education, finance, and general knowledge. The service requires no internet access or smartphone, making it accessible to people in areas with limited connectivity.

Unlike many global AI systems trained primarily in English, Caaqil operates entirely in Somali, ensuring cultural and linguistic relevance. It serves as a digital encyclopedia tailored to local needs, enabling farmers to seek crop advice, students to clarify academic concepts, and entrepreneurs to access business insights.

Hormuud’s prior innovations, including the EVC Plus mobile money platform used by over 70% of Somalis daily and the expansion of 4G and 5G networks, have laid the groundwork for Caaqil’s launch. The AI service builds on the company’s history of delivering scalable, reliable solutions to connect and empower communities.

By providing critical information in an easy-to-use format, Caaqil aims to reduce reliance on slow or unreliable information sources, fostering informed decision-making across Somalia’s diverse regions. The service marks a step toward integrating digital intelligence into everyday life, particularly in underserved areas.

GAROWE ONLINE