We are delighted to introduce Mr. Mohamed Abdirizak, former Minister of Foreign Affairs, Somalia is a distinguished leader and advocate for peace, justice, and democracy. As the newest Advisory Board Member of COSCU, Mr. Abdirizak brings a wealth of experience and expertise in diplomacy, conflict resolution, and international cooperation.
Mr. Abdirizak is the Co-founder and CEO of Somaccord, an organization dedicated to promoting alternative dispute resolution mechanisms at political and community levels. His visionary leadership at Somaccord underscores his unwavering commitment to fostering dialogue and understanding for a more peaceful and stable future.
Before joining Somaccord, Mr. Abdirizak served as the Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation of the Federal Republic of Somalia. His tenure witnessed significant strides in diplomatic relations and strategic partnerships aimed at advancing Somalia’s global standing and fostering regional cooperation.
As Managing Director of the Platform for Political Dialogue and Accommodation in Somalia, Mr. Abdirizak played a pivotal role in facilitating engagement between Somali leaders and the public. His efforts were instrumental in formulating inclusive strategies for addressing constitutional challenges and consolidating Somalia’s federal system.
Mr. Abdirizak’s tenure as country director for the National Democratic Institute (NDI) in Nairobi, Kenya, marked a period of transformative initiatives that contributed to ending Somalia’s transitional period. His advocacy for democratic principles and civic engagement has been pivotal in shaping Somalia’s political landscape.
Throughout his career, Mr. Abdirizak has demonstrated exceptional leadership in fostering collaborations between diverse stakeholders. His role as a political advisor to the special representative of the Secretary-General at the U.N. Political Office for Somalia showcased his ability to navigate complex diplomatic challenges and drive meaningful outcomes.
Mr. Abdirizak holds a master’s degree in international relations from the Johns Hopkins University School of Advanced International Studies (SAIS), underscoring his deep understanding of global affairs and diplomatic strategies.
As an Advisory Board Member of COSCU, Mr. Abdirizak’s wealth of experience and strategic insights will be instrumental in shaping COSCU’s initiatives aimed at promoting excellence, collaboration, and innovation in the education sector globally. His passion for peace and development aligns seamlessly with COSCU’s mission, and we are honored to have him on board.