In December 2024, the Somali Cabinet appointed Mustaf Sheikh Ali Dhuxulow as the Director General of Somalia’s Immigration and Citizenship Agency (HSJ). Since then, he has led major changes to modernize the agency and bring it up to international standards.
Reforms and Strategic Overhaul
Under Dhuxulow’s leadership, HSJ underwent a comprehensive institutional reform, including a full evaluation of its operational frameworks, legal structures, financial systems, and staffing models. This reformation effort laid the groundwork for long-term planning, culminating in a new five-year strategic plan (2025–2029) aimed at enhancing the agency’s effectiveness and accountability.
A key achievement includes the creation of the HSJ Training Academy, designed to build capacity across all levels of the institution
Elevating Workforce Rights and Skills
Dhuxulow has also prioritized employee development and rights. He oversaw the registration of civil servants with the national database, and 156 long-serving staff were officially recognized and granted full benefits. More than 20 specialized training programs were introduced, and internal bodies such as the Ethics Committee and Workplace Grievance Council were formed to improve transparency and professional growth.
Enhancing Border and Travel Security
One of Dhuxulow’s most notable successes is the full implementation of the PISCES system (Personal Identification Secure Comparison and Evaluation System) at Mogadishu’s Aden Adde International
Airport. This cutting-edge border security technology enhances the government's ability to monitor travel, combat human trafficking, and prevent transnational crime.
The launch of PISCES was marked by a high-profile event attended by Somalia’s Minister of Internal Security, Dhuxulow himself, and representatives from the U.S. Government and Interpol. Dhuxulow described the initiative as “a vital step toward modernizing Somalia’s border management through advanced technology and real-time data systems.”
International Collaboration and Recognition
Thanks to Dhuxulow’s diplomatic foresight, HSJ signed strategic cooperation agreements with global agencies including Interpol, focusing on intelligence-sharing, advanced training, and technical support. The U.S. government, represented by Mr. Bob, praised the partnership, affirming its commitment to Somalia’s security and governance reforms.
Tech-Driven Institutional Growth
The Dhuxulow-led administration has modernized critical systems such as MIDAS and PIACAS, integrated with Interpol watchlists and cybersecurity frameworks. A central data protection protocol was introduced to safeguard sensitive information, and a National Identity and Passport Integration Taskforce was launched to unify identity management in Somalia
Expanding National Presence
Under his watch, the Immigration Agency established new regional offices and strengthened infrastructure in key areas including Dhuusamareeb and SSC-Khatumo, signaling the agency’s commitment to national coverage and service delivery in underserved regions.
A Visionary Reformer for a New Somalia
Mustaf Sheikh Cali Dhuxulow’s tenure is marked by action, vision, and results. His ability to blend institutional reform with technological innovation and international cooperation has not only reshaped HSJ but has also strengthened Somalia’s national security, workforce empowerment, and global standing.
As Somalia moves forward, Dhuxulow’s leadership serves as a beacon of what competent governance and strategic foresight can accomplish.
