Somalia is operating a US-backed biometric border system to improve security and curb irregular migration.
The official introduction of the Personal Identification Secure Comparison and Evaluation System (PISCES) comes after experts from the US Embassy in Mogadishu trained Somalia's Immigration and Citizenship Agency (ICA) staff for four days.
According to the ICA, the training aimed to improve ways for detecting false documents and tracking people crossing borders using the system, particularly at airports, seaports, and land borders.
The PISCES technology intends to enable Somali authorities to screen travellers in real time against global watch lists, detect identity fraud, and trace suspicious activity.
The Center for Strategic and International Studies notes that the nation’s location in the Horn of Africa, makes it one of the most unstable regions in the world, with a long history of conflict, geopolitical tensions, and poor regional cooperation.
Additionally, the country has introduced a new third-generation e-passport embedded with biometric chips and strong anti-forgery features, meeting international standards.
“This is not just about adopting technology, it’s about protecting our people and restoring trust,” said Mustafa Duhulow, director general of ICA.
“These systems save lives, stop crimes, and build trust in institutions,” adds a US Embassy official.
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