what makes us different
Welcome to Friends of China in Somalia (FOCIS) – a bridge of mutual understanding, cooperation, and shared prosperity between the peoples of the Federal Republic of Somalia and the People’s Republic of China.
FOCIS is a voluntary, non-political, non-profit organization dedicated to strengthening the historical bonds of friendship between the peoples of Somalia and China. Registered in Mogadishu, we serve as a soft-power bridge, connecting Somali communities with Chinese expertise, culture, and development models.
We are a team of Somali youth professionals, academics, business leaders, and former students of Chinese universities who are united by a common belief: that the historic friendship between Somalia and China can be a powerful force for peace, development, and regional stability.
We deeply believe that the historic ties between our two nations—dating back to the 15th century and the modern era of the 1960s—hold the key to Somalia’s economic rebirth.
We believe that true diplomacy happens not just in conference rooms, but in classrooms, hospitals, farms, and community centers. Our team consists of Somali professionals, China-returned scholars, and local volunteers who share a deep admiration for Chinese culture and a commitment to Somalia’s national growth.
The idea for Friends of China was born in Mogadishu in 2026 but our roots go back to 2018, when a group of Somali graduates and returnees from Chinese universities began meeting regularly to keep the alumni connection and network alive in Somalia. The group who are now professionals based in Mogadishu, realized that while government relations were strong, people-to-people bonds needed a dedicated home.
They saw a problem: many Somalis only knew “China” as a source of cheap goods or big construction contracts. They saw an opportunity: to introduce China as a partner in education, public health, and rural development.
Today, FOCS has grown from 6 founders to over 200 active members and many local partner community organizations across Somalia.
Together We Rise — From Friendship to Action.
Promote Cultural Diplomacy: Organize language exchanges (Mandarin & Somali), cultural festivals, and educational workshops to foster mutual respect.
Facilitate Knowledge Transfer: Connect Somali professionals with Chinese expertise and Leverage Chinese expertise in infrastructure and technology to support Somalia’s rebuilding efforts in health, education, and urban planning.
Support Community Development: Implement small-scale, high-impact projects (clean water, school supplies, vocational training) inspired by successful China-Africa cooperation models.
Counter Misinformation: Provide factual, balanced information about the China-Somalia relationship, focusing on shared history (from the 15th-century voyages of Zheng He to modern Belt & Road cooperation).
Strengthening historical ties rooted in shared development goals, from infrastructure and health to education, while engaging youth as the future bridge between the two nations. We treat every project as a human connection, not just a transaction.
Operating with openness, accountability, and integrity in all exchanges, projects, and communications, ensuring that local communities understand and benefit from every collaboration.
We listen to Somali communities first; Chinese cooperation follows their lead. Prioritizing locally appropriate, environmentally conscious, and long-term partnerships over short-term aid.
We uphold the One-China principle and respect the laws and culture of the Federal Republic of Somalia.
We run free Mandarin lessons in Mogadishu, we organize monthly culture day event and we plan to initiate Somali language appreciation classes for Chinese expatriates living in Somalia.
We organize orientation events for Scholarships and Study in China program in different schools in Mogadishu. We also support Somali graduates of Chinese universities to find meaningful employment and share their experiences.
During crises (drought, floods, or health emergencies), we work with Chinese charities and Somali diaspora to deliver medical supplies and food aid.
Partnering with Chinese agricultural firms, we host field days showing Somali farmers how to improve yield using appropriate Chinese techniques.
what makes us different
FOCS is led by a small but diverse and dedicated team that combines Somali and Chinese friends, professionals, educators, youth leaders, and community volunteers who believe that strong nations are built on strong friendships. For us, diplomacy is not just a matter of governments—it is a daily act of learning, helping, and growing together.
Co-founder & President
Co-founer & Vice-President
Co-founder & Secretary General
Treasurer
Co-founder & Director General
Co-founder & Programme Co-ordinator
Co-founder & Public Relations
Activity Co-ordinator
You don’t need to be Somali or Chinese to support us. You just need to believe that friendship across borders can change lives.
Grand plaza , 1st floor, bureau 112
Makka Almukarrama Strt, Hodan Dist., Mogadishu.
contact@friendsofchina.so
061-961-5310
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