Making a Tangible Contribution to the Development of Somaliland

Ismael Farah, IT advisor from Amsterdam:

“Making a Tangible Contribution to the Development of Somaliland”

“CD4D2 enables me to give something back to Somaliland, to make a tangible contribution to its reconstruction,” says Ismael Farah, IT advisor from Amsterdam. Ismael was born in Somaliland, but was two years old when he came with his parents to the Netherlands. “The Netherlands has given me many opportunities. Using my knowledge is my way of contributing to the development of my country of origin.”

The Ministry of Parliamentary Relations and Constitutional Affairs in Hargeisa was looking for an experienced expert to help create an innovative IT environment for the entire Ministry. Ismael’s assignment was to advise management and train the IT staff. “That was more or less a challenge. It is for instance important to know the ministry’s ambitions in the field of IT. Of course I can think along with them, but I am not an advisor they hire – I came with a very specific assignment. So they must have thought about it carefully in advance.”

Because of COVID-19, the first part of Ismael’s assignment took place virtually. Hopefully the remaining two months can still take place physically. “The advantage of a virtual training is that it enabled me to do something meaningful in these difficult times. With a focus on knowledge transfer. What I do find difficult with a virtual training is how do I keep the trainees interested. I hope I can give the next training live. Direct contact with the trainees is easier, for instance with technical problems they are experiencing. You have to see it with your own eyes. My students are young, unfortunately they are all men. I think that’s a shame, by the way. ”
Innovating the IT structure is a complex job that requires hands-on involvement. “I can initiate changes, but the students have to continue independently. It is important that they can continue on their own. ”

Ismael sees CD4D2 as a practical tool to transfer knowledge and expertise. “By convincing management to formulate goals and by developing the skills of their staff. I absolutely want to continue to commit myself to CD4D2; I find the project very motivating because this enables me to make a tangible contribution to the development of Somaliland. And I realize I myself am also growing: by transferring my knowledge, responding to expectations, and by adopting a flexible attitude in a different culture. I would like to be an ambassador for this project; I can recommend it to everyone.”