About Us

Institute of Public Finance Somalia (IPFS)

The Institute of Public Finance Somalia (IPFS) is a pioneering independent think tank, established in 2015 and headquartered in Mogadishu, Somalia. As a non-political entity, our core mission is to foster robust Public Financial Management (PFM) and tax-related programs that contribute significantly to the socio-economic development of Somalia. Our approach is rooted in the principles of research, education, and empowerment, aimed at creating a foundation for effective public finance systems that serve the Somali people.

Our Vision

Our vision is to transform Somalia into a model of excellence in macroeconomic management and public financial governance. We aspire to be the leading institution in Somalia for training, research, and capacity building in the fields of public finance and economic policy. By equipping individuals and organizations with the knowledge and skills necessary for effective financial management, we aim to contribute to the establishment of a resilient and transparent financial system that enhances the quality of life for all citizens.

Our Mission

At IPFS, our mission encompasses several key objectives:

Enhancing Capacity: We are dedicated to strengthening the capabilities of public finance institutions, ensuring that they are equipped to manage resources efficiently and effectively.

Conducting Research: We prioritize rigorous research and analysis to inform policy decisions and provide evidence-based recommendations for improving public finance management.

Promoting Transparency and Accountability: We advocate for transparent and accountable financial processes, enabling citizens to hold their government accountable for resource allocation and management.

Empowering Stakeholders: By providing education and training programs, we empower government officials, civil society organizations, and private sector actors to engage meaningfully in public finance issues.

Organizational Structure

IPFS operates under a robust governance framework led by a seven-member executive board responsible for setting strategic priorities and overseeing the Institute’s operations. Our team is comprised of seasoned professionals, including a Chief Executive Officer (CEO) and Managing Director, who ensure the effective execution of our strategic initiatives. We employ a collaborative approach, fostering partnerships with various stakeholders to maximize our impact.

The Role of IPFS in Somalia’s Development

Since its establishment, IPFS has played a vital role in addressing the challenges faced by Somalia’s public sector, which has been significantly affected by decades of conflict and instability. The complexities of governance in Somalia are compounded by a lack of unified legal frameworks, inconsistent policy implementation, and a shortage of qualified personnel. Our commitment to addressing these issues is reflected in our comprehensive and multi-faceted programs that aim to promote good governance, enhance capacity, and facilitate collaboration among stakeholders at all levels.

Our Focus Areas

To fulfill our mission and vision, IPFS concentrates its efforts on several key focus areas:

• Public Financial Management (PFM) and Tax Administration: We provide extensive technical support and capacity-building initiatives to improve public resource management and enhance tax administration capabilities. Our focus includes developing comprehensive fiscal policies, managing budget processes, and advocating for effective revenue mobilization strategies.
• Climate and Environmental Sustainability: Recognizing the importance of sustainable development, we advocate for green public finance and the implementation of environmentally sensitive budgeting practices. Our initiatives aim to integrate climate considerations into public financial management and promote policies that align economic development with environmental sustainability.
• Improving the Business Environment: We are committed to enhancing Somalia’s business landscape by supporting regulatory reforms and fostering public-private partnerships (PPPs). Our efforts aim to create a conducive environment for investment and innovation, contributing to economic growth and development.
• Health, Education, Gender, and Social Services: We actively engage in initiatives aimed at improving service delivery in critical sectors such as health and education. Our programs promote equity and social inclusion, ensuring that vulnerable populations have access to essential services and opportunities.
• Research and Publications: We conduct rigorous research and produce publications that inform policy discussions and foster evidence-based decision-making. Our focus includes conducting institutional risk assessments, fiduciary assessments, and monitoring and evaluation activities that support the development of effective policies.
• Institutional Strengthening and Capacity Development: We are dedicated to enhancing the skills and knowledge of professionals in the field of public finance. Our training programs are designed to equip government officials, civil society actors, and other stakeholders with the tools they need to effectively manage public resources and engage in policy advocacy.

Our Commitment to Excellence

At IPFS, we are guided by our core principles, which include fiscal sustainability, transparency, accountability, and value for money. We advocate for responsible budgeting practices, emphasizing the importance of maintaining affordable debt levels and fostering self-reliance. Our commitment to transparent and accountable processes ensures that public resources are managed effectively, with clear reporting and oversight mechanisms in place.

Strategic Partnerships and Collaborations

We recognize that addressing the complex challenges facing Somalia requires collaborative efforts. As such, we actively engage with a wide range of stakeholders, including governmental institutions, civil society organizations, international development partners, and the private sector. Through these collaborations, we seek to leverage diverse expertise and resources to drive meaningful change and support sustainable development in Somalia.

Get Involved

We invite individuals and organizations interested in contributing to Somalia’s development to join us in our mission. Whether you are a government agency, a civil society organization, a private sector entity, or an international partner, your engagement and support are invaluable as we work together to build a stronger, more resilient Somalia.

For more information about our programs, initiatives, and how you can get involved, please visit our website at www.ipf.so or contact us at info@ipf.so.