Our Story
The Somali Institute for Continuing Legal Education (SICLE) represents the culmination of decades of dedication by Somali legal professionals who never stopped believing in the power of law to rebuild a nation. Formally established in 2024, SICLE builds on a legacy of mentorship and legal education that persisted through Somalia’s most difficult years.
Today, as Somalia emerges as a regional hub with a growing economy driven by the ingenuity and determination of its people, SICLE is working to ensure that the legal profession keeps pace with the nation’s ambitions.
Historical Roots
The Pioneers (1979-1985)
SICLE’s story begins with dedicated legal professionals who believed in nurturing the next generation:
- 1979: Abdiwahid Osman Haji pioneered court observation programs for law students at the Supreme Court
- 1984: Informal mentorship networks formed during civil unrest, preserving legal knowledge
- 1984-1985: The first Legal Skills Clinic established in Hargeisa
Perseverance Through Crisis (1985-2013)
Through civil war and institutional collapse, dedicated mentors kept the flame of legal education alive:
- Mentorship continued despite enormous challenges
- Mogadishu Law Office (MLO) survived the civil war and re-established in 2000
- Informal networks preserved legal knowledge across generations
Rebuilding (2013-2024)
As Somalia began to stabilize, structured legal education re-emerged:
- 2013-2014: Reestablishment of Somali National University marked a turning point
- 2015: Collaboration with SIMAD University to integrate continuing legal education
- 2020: Virtual learning platform launched in partnership with Edinburgh Law School
- 2024: SICLE formally established as an independent institution
Our Vision
We envision a Somalia where the rule of law is strong, where legal professionals are well-trained and ethical, and where every citizen has access to justice. We are building the foundation for a legal system that will serve generations to come.
What We Are Building
Professional Development
Developing comprehensive curricula that combine foundational legal knowledge with practical skills relevant to Somalia’s unique legal landscape—including statutory law, Sharia, and customary Xeer traditions.
Community and Mentorship
Creating networks that connect experienced practitioners with emerging lawyers, facilitating knowledge transfer and building a cohesive legal community across Somalia.
Resources and Research
Building a library of practical resources, research, and publications that support legal practice and contribute to legal scholarship in Somalia.
Institutional Partnerships
Collaborating with universities, courts, government agencies, and international partners to strengthen legal education and practice throughout the country.
Who We Serve
SICLE is for everyone committed to Somalia’s legal future:
- Practicing lawyers seeking to deepen their expertise
- Judges and court officials strengthening legal institutions
- Law students and recent graduates entering the profession
- Legal academics and researchers
- Organizations and firms committed to professional excellence
- Anyone passionate about building Somalia’s legal system
Join Us
Whether you are a seasoned practitioner or just beginning your legal journey, you have a role to play in building Somalia’s legal future. Together, we are creating a legacy that will endure for generations.