ABOUT US
Uniting Somaliland-Americans across the nation to strengthen community roots in the United States while driving transformative philanthropic impact in Somaliland.
Vision
A thriving, connected Somaliland-American diaspora across the United States—civically engaged, culturally confident, and expanding opportunity for families in both the U.S. and Somaliland.
Mission
American Somaliland Association for Development (ASAD) is a Virginia-registered 501(c)(3) that builds a nationwide chapter network to connect Somaliland-American communities, share trusted information, mentor and develop youth, and host local civic and cultural events. We also mobilize volunteers, donations, and partnerships to deliver measurable initiatives in Somaliland focused on sustainable agriculture, health, youth technology education, women’s empowerment, and community capacity building.
Our Focus Areas
Together, we build flourishing USA Communities Outreach
Transform Communities. Shape the Future.
Connect communities. Develop youth. Strengthen civic life. Deliver programs that improve lives
Our Values:
- Transparency & Accountability – We report clearly on funds, decisions, and results.
- Stewardship – We treat every donation as a responsibility.
- Community-Led Impact – We listen first and build with the community.
- Partnership – We collaborate with Somaliland organizations in the U.S. and trusted local partners.
- Dignity & Respect – We serve people with dignity and cultural respect.
History / Background
American Somaliland Association for Development (ASAD) Founded in 2022 in Northern Virginia, ASAD unites and empowers Somaliland-Americans nationwide — providing a trusted platform for connection, resources, and coordinated action. We help Somaliland-Americans integrate and thrive through community events, civic engagement, and vital referral services, while mobilizing diaspora-driven support for high-impact programs back home. Our focus areas: Agriculture · Health · Youth IT Education · Women's Empowerment · Community Capacity Building.
Management and Board Members
Jamal Aden
Board Chair (President) – Volunteer Role
Jamal Aden is a seasoned IT and cybersecurity professional with over a decade of experience supporting global organizations in strengthening cybersecurity governance, risk management, and technology strategy. He currently serves at a leading global consulting firm, where he advises clients on building resilient, secure, and future-ready digital infrastructures. Jamal holds a Master of Cybersecurity Risk Management from Georgetown University, Washington, DC — one of the nation’s premier programs at the intersection of technology, policy, and national security.
Beyond his professional career, Jamal is a dedicated civic leader with a sustained record of service to his community. From 2014 to 2025, he served as Chairman of the Somaliland Community of Greater Washington, DC, where he spearheaded community development initiatives, organized cultural and civic events, facilitated the resettlement and integration of newly arrived Somalilanders, and built collaborative networks of Somaliland diaspora communities across the United States. His leadership helped transform a growing diaspora into a cohesive, organized, and civically engaged community.
Jamal serves as the Board Chair of ASAD.
Hirsi Dirir
Board Member (Volunteer)
Hirsi Dirir is a public service–driven executive focused on strengthening institutions and expanding opportunity through technology and finance. He currently leads a major hardware portfolio within the enterprise landscape, overseeing a multibillion-dollar annual portfolio that supports enterprise operations with transparency and efficiency.
Previously, he served as Chief Executive Officer of East Africa Bank, advancing financial inclusion and modernizing digital banking services. Earlier in his career, he held global technology leadership roles supporting government and enterprise clients with mission-critical solutions.
