The Center for Strategic Policy and Development (CSPD) officially launched on Saturday, January 25, 2025, during a historic gathering held at the Renaissance Hotel in Columbus, Ohio. The event brought together community leaders, policymakers, professionals, and members of the Somali diaspora for an evening dedicated to dialogue, development, and strategic vision.
A Historic Moment for the Somali Community in Columbus
The launch ceremony served as an important milestone, marking the beginning of CSPD’s work in driving inclusive policy conversations and strengthening community engagement—both locally and internationally.
The highlight of the evening was the keynote address by H.E. Ahmed Moallin Fiqi, Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Federal Government of Somalia (FGS). His presence underscored the importance of building bridges between the Somali government and diaspora communities, as well as strengthening cooperation on issues of development, governance, and global representation.
Distinguished Guest Speakers
The event also featured several notable guest speakers whose expertise and public service brought depth and insight to the evening, including:
- Amb. Dahir Hassan Arab
- Wasiir Sadiq Warfa
- Rep. Ismail Mohamed
- Farhan Jeyte
- Safiyo Tusmo
Their combined perspectives highlighted the shared responsibility of leaders and community members to advance progress, unity, and informed civic participation.
Strong Community Participation
Members of the Columbus community turned out in large numbers, demonstrating strong interest and support for CSPD’s mission. Attendees expressed their enthusiasm for the organization’s focus on:
- Strategic policy development
- Strengthening U.S.–Somalia relations
- Empowering New American communities
- Promoting civic engagement
- Supporting inclusive leadership and development
The positive energy and engagement throughout the evening reflected a shared commitment to building a stronger and more connected community.
Conclusion
The launch of CSPD marks the beginning of an exciting journey focused on collaboration, development, and policy innovation. The organization looks forward to continuing its work with the community, strengthening partnerships, and advancing initiatives that support both local and global progress.