Somalia: Hormuud Telecom’s Early Warning System Nominated for UN WSIS Award

Hormuud Telecom’s Early Warning System has been nominated for the prestigious United Nations World Summit on the Information Society (WSIS) Prizes, an international platform that recognizes innovative projects using information and communication technologies (ICTs) to advance sustainable development.

Established in 2003, the WSIS awards are part of a global initiative aimed at fostering an inclusive and people-centered information society, aligned with the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The awards highlight impactful ICT solutions from governments, private sector actors, civil society, and international organizations.

Hormuud’s Early Warning System is among the select global projects announced on April 11, 2025, as finalists for this year’s WSIS Prizes. Public voting is ongoing until April 30, 2025, and winners will be revealed during the July WSIS+20 High-Level Event in Geneva.

The system was developed "to provide communities with timely alerts and vital information during emergencies." It uses mobile voice technology to deliver messages directly to users during phone calls, ensuring rapid and wide dissemination of warnings, especially in remote or underserved areas.

This mechanism proved instrumental during major national events such as the COVID-19 pandemic and the El Niño-induced storms of late 2023. The system enabled Hormuud to distribute life-saving health guidance and safety alerts in both instances. It also supports awareness campaigns around environmental protection and climate-related risks like deforestation.

According to Hormuud, the nomination represents a significant milestone for Somali innovation and highlights how local ICT solutions can tackle global challenges.

Voting for the WSIS Prizes remains open until April 30. Members of the public and interested stakeholders can participate by supporting projects they believe are making a tangible difference.

The WSIS Prizes are awarded annually across various categories, celebrating excellence in digital innovation that contributes to inclusive and sustainable development.

GAROWE ONLINE