Our Founding Team

SICLE was founded by distinguished legal professionals who have dedicated their careers to advancing legal education in Somalia.

Ava Asha Keen

President & Founder

A senior lawyer since 1982, Ava Asha Keen embodies the historical knowledge and traditions of Somalia’s legal system. She provides deep institutional memory of pre-conflict legal frameworks and guides SICLE with decades of experience in Somali legal practice. Her leadership ensures that SICLE’s programs are grounded in both tradition and innovation.

Dr. Aweis Ahmed (Mr. Awise)

Co-Founder

Dr. Aweis Ahmed is a co-founder of Mogadishu Law Office (MLO) with a Master’s degree in Information Management Systems. He brings 16 years of experience at the U.S. Federal Communications Commission (FCC), making him an expert in telecommunications law, cyber law, and digital regulations. Dr. Ahmed bridges traditional legal education with technology and digital practice, having returned to Somalia to bring international expertise home.

Abdiwahid Osman Haji (Mr. Osman, Mr. Haji)

Co-Founder & Pioneer

Mr. Haji is a co-founder of Mogadishu Law Office (MLO) in 1983 and pioneered court observation programs in 1979. He is an expert in Somali law with decades of hands-on experience and has drafted key legislation including the Foreign Investment Law and Somali Company Law. As an advocate for judicial reform, his legal opinions are sought by international bodies including Canada’s Immigration and Refugee Board.

“Why not us? Somalia could train youth to lead with ethics and rebuilding institutions” — Abdiwahid Osman Haji

Ismasil Jumali

Co-Founder

Ismasil Jumali began informal mentorship of law students in 1984 and has dedicated decades to legal education during civil unrest. He carried the torch of legal education through Somalia’s most difficult periods and helped lay the groundwork for SICLE’s eventual formalization.

Abdi Wahed Osman

Co-Founder

Abdi Wahed Osman initiated grassroots mentorship efforts alongside Ismasil Jumali in 1984. He helped sustain legal education during institutional collapse and has maintained a long-standing commitment to practical legal training throughout his career.

Ali Hela

Co-Founder

Ali Hela was part of the founding team that formalized SICLE in 2024, contributing expertise and experience to institution-building efforts.

Governance Structure

General Assembly

The General Assembly is SICLE’s highest governing body, convening every two years. Its responsibilities include:

  • Approving the institution’s constitution
  • Electing the Board of Directors
  • Setting overarching strategic direction

Board of Directors

The Board of Directors consists of 15 members who operate between General Assembly meetings. Their responsibilities include:

  • Reviewing and approving strategic plans and operational budgets
  • Setting policies and procedures
  • Mapping strategic direction
  • Securing funding and diversifying donors

Operational Teams

SICLE’s day-to-day operations are managed by specialized teams:

  • Education & Training
  • Monitoring & Evaluation
  • Advocacy & Outreach
  • Capacity Building
  • Legal Aid Services

Advisory Board

SICLE’s commitment to excellence is overseen by an esteemed advisory board composed of leading legal professionals, scholars, and experts from various legal sectors. The board ensures that programs are forward-looking, practical, and in line with global best practices while meeting the needs of Somalia’s legal community.