MOGADISHU, Somalia, Jan 6 – Somali Prime Minister Hamza Abdi Barre took a historic step on Monday by laying the foundation stone for Darul Ifta, the nation’s first dedicated Islamic Scholars’ Center. The new institution, located in Mogadishu, symbolizes the government’s commitment to advancing Islamic scholarship and fostering a deeper understanding of faith among Somalis.

Darul Ifta, meaning “House of Fatwa,” will serve as a center for Islamic legal and theological studies, playing a pivotal role in shaping religious education and discourse in Somalia. Addressing attendees during the ceremony, Prime Minister Barre highlighted the importance of the initiative. “This center will not only educate our youth but also guide our religious practices to align with the true teachings of Islam,” he said.

The establishment of Darul Ifta comes as Somalia works to strengthen its institutions and counter extremist ideologies. By promoting a moderate and inclusive interpretation of Islam, the center aims to provide structured education, research opportunities, and a platform for Islamic jurisprudence that aligns with the country’s cultural and spiritual values.

Religious leaders and local residents who attended the event praised the project’s potential to transform the community. Sheikh Mohamed, a local cleric, called the initiative “a beacon of hope for our youth, offering them a path through knowledge rather than violence.”

Darul Ifta is expected to collaborate with Islamic institutions globally, enhancing Somalia’s role in the broader landscape of Islamic scholarship. The center also represents a broader government effort to rebuild and stabilize Somalia post-conflict, emphasizing education as a cornerstone for peace and development.