Why 3D Printing Matters for Somalia

3D printing is not just a new technology; it’s a revolution in how we design and produce. Around the world, it is reshaping industries like healthcare, education, construction, manufacturing, and product innovation.

For Somalia, 3D printing carries even greater importance. It is an opportunity to build local industries, reduce reliance on imports, equip youth with advanced skills, and spark new businesses and jobs. Through Cohort 1, we began to lay the foundation for this future.

Guiding the First Somali 3D Cohort

When applications opened, we were overwhelmed by interest 300 students applied, and over 100 were selected from various universities across Mogadishu.

Throughout the program, I had the chance to mentor these students as they learned to:

• ✔️ Design in 3D
• ✔️ Prototype their ideas into models
• ✔️ Fabricate real products ready for testing or market

But what impressed me most wasn’t just their technical progress, it was their teamwork, creativity, and hunger to solve problems. They quickly shifted from thinking like students to acting like innovators and future entrepreneurs.

Seeing the Impact Firsthand

The impact of Cohort 1 has already been remarkable:

• ✔️ A new 3D printing company was launched in Mogadishu.
• ✔️ Students secured internships and began freelancing.
• ✔️ Many are preparing to become mentors for future cohorts.

Watching their journey confirmed to me that Somalia’s youth are not waiting for opportunities abroad, they are ready to create them here at home.

My Growth as a Mentor

While mentoring this program, I also focused on strengthening my own capacity as a trainer. I successfully completed the Training of Trainers (ToT) under Forge Academy, using official resources from PrintLab.

This 80-hour certification focused on digital fabrication, instructional methods, and workshop facilitation, giving me the tools to deliver training at an international standard.

Becoming ToT certified has enabled me to design better workshops, mentor with clarity, and build a culture of learning that empowers students to take ownership of their growth.

I want to express my gratitude to:

• ✔️ The students of Cohort 1, for their energy and commitment.
• ✔️ The Fablab Support Team and iForge team, for crafting a curriculum that combined skills and entrepreneurship.

✨ Congratulations to the graduates of 3D Printing Cohort 1!

You are proof that Somalia’s youth can lead in innovation and digital manufacturing.

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