Hiil Institute for Governance and Development Institute (HIGAD), which is also referred to, from time to time, as HIIL Institute, was started in 2017 but officially registered and launched in 2024 as an independent, non-profit and non-governmental organisation which will focus on the sectors of peace, good governance, development and research within the Federal Republic of Somalia and with international collaborations. The institute recognizes that good governance and development are the cornerstones of stability and peace, and hence it strives in the belief that “development starts with an environment of good governance, transparency and accountability”. It is important to underscore that transparency is a critical issue in Somalia, a country that has faced significant challenges due to conflict, instability, and corruption. The major causes of the poor ranking for Somalia are to be attributed to the state fragility and weaknesses of public institutions, lack of accountability and transparency.

Hiil Institute believes that societies where development and positive peace prevail experience enhanced positive sectoral support in political, social and economic attributes resulting in sustainable development. That in turn creates a skilled labour force and frees up resources, both human and financial, that are diverted to create or control violence. Having that in mind, the main objective of HIIL Institute is to serve as a resource centre for training, capacity building, research activities, expertise and experience sharing and dialogue for all stakeholders in Somalia in the areas of governance and development.

In addition to that, Hiil Institute gives priority to the areas of focus, considering Somalia’s current context. By focusing on these contextual aspects within each area of focus, the Hiil Institute can make a significant contribution towards strengthening governance and promoting sustainable development in Somalia.