In a groundbreaking development for Somalia’s food industry and East Africa’s export economy, the Horn of Africa Livestock Improvement and Conformity Services (HALICS) officially launched today in Mogadishu. The Somali-led certification body is already making headlines after becoming the first locally owned and operated institution to issue an internationally recognized ISO 22000:2018 Food Safety Management System certificate to a Somali meat company.
The event, attended by government officials, exporters, industry leaders, and international observers, marked a significant turning point in Somalia’s journey toward self-reliance in food safety, Halal certification, and global trade compliance.
“This is more than a launch,” said Ali Warsama, CEO of HALICS. “This is a statement to the world that Somalia is ready to meet and exceed international standards using our own experts, our own systems, and our own commitment to excellence.”
Founded in 2021, HALICS has quickly expanded operations across East Africa, opening branches in Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, and Ethiopia. The organization focuses on ISO standards, Halal certification in line with GSO UAE GSO and OIC/SMIIC frameworks, and building capacity in food-producing sectors ranging from meat and dairy to fisheries, fruits, and vegetables.
Historically, Somali exporters have relied on foreign certification bodies, often facing delays, high costs, and limited local understanding. HALICS bridges that gap by offering credible, transparent, and regionally rooted services that meet international requirements.
The recent ISO 22000 certification issued by HALICS is a first for the country and a source of national pride. It sends a powerful message to global markets that Somali meat processors and exporters are serious about food safety and quality assurance.
HALICS’ goals go beyond meat exports. With eyes on long-term impact, the organization is actively pursuing accreditations for ISO/IEC 17025 (testing laboratories) and ISO/IEC 17020 (inspection bodies). This will allow HALICS to support even more industries and ensure compliance with regulatory and religious standards critical to trade with Gulf and Asian markets.
The initiative has already attracted praise from key trade partners and regional institutions who see HALICS as a model for African-led certification bodies capable of meeting global demand.
Another hallmark of HALICS is its focus on training local auditors, inspectors, and food safety professionals, particularly women and youth.
Through its upcoming training programs and stakeholder initiatives, HALICS aims to build a regional workforce equipped to uphold global food standards.
With increasing demand for Halal and hygienically certified food products globally, HALICS is set to play a pivotal role in the region’s economic growth and food sovereignty.
As Ali Warsama stated at the ceremony:
“We are not just opening an office. We are opening a door to global markets for Somali and East African producers. HALICS belongs to the people of this region, and our mission is clear – to certify with integrity, to uplift with quality, and to lead with credibility.
Somalia celebrates major food safety milestone with launch of HALICS
In a groundbreaking development for Somalia’s food industry and East Africa’s export economy, the Horn of Africa Livestock Improvement and Conformity Services (HALICS) officially launched today in Mogadishu. The Somali-led certification body is already making headlines after becoming the first...
