EST. 2024

Institute for Research and
Insight Studies (IRIS).

Dedicated to advancing transformative research and fostering informed decision-making.

Our Vision

To be a leading independent think tank in Somalia, driving transformative research, policy analysis, and informed decision-making in governance, social issues, and economic development.

Our Mission

To conduct rigorous research, promote dialogue, and provide actionable policy solutions that contribute to Somalia’s sustainable development, peacebuilding, and economic progress.

Core Values

Integrity & Excellence
Transparency & Accountability
Collaboration & Inclusivity
Empowerment & Innovation
Evidence-Based Approach

Strategic Plan

Executive Summary

The Institute for Research and Insight Studies (IRIS Institute) is an independent, non governmental, and non-profit think tank based in Somalia. Dedicated to advancing transformative research and fostering informed decision-making, IRIS addresses critical political, social, and economic challenges through rigorous analysis, meaningful dialogue, and evidence-based policy recommendations. By engaging with policymakers, academia, civil society, and the private sector, IRIS aims to contribute to Somalia’s sustainable development and good governance.

Strategic Context

Strengths

• High caliber of competent researchers
• Capacity building and training
• Strong Brand name
• Structured research programs and dissemination platforms
• Partners/collaborators (local/ international)

Weaknesses

• Inadequate Funding
• Low number of qualified staff
• Weak coordination and administrative systems
• Weak legal frameworks

Opportunities

• Supportive Government policies
• Sustained Research funding
• Adoption of innovative research and training programs
• National, Regional and International engagements
• Public good will
• Political good will

Threats

• Weak research coordination
• Political interference
• Loss of highly skilled human resource
• Social media negative publicity

Strategic Direction

Research and Innovation

To conduct quality research, engage in policy development and leadership studies to support evidence-based policymaking in Somalia.

Develop a five-year research agenda focusing on governance, socioeconomic development, and climate change.
Collaborate with local and international research institutions to co-author and publish at least five research papers per year.
Establish research fellowships and internship programs to build local research capacity.

Leadership Development

To develop leadership skills in public and private sectors for the transformation of lives and organizations.

Launch leadership-training programs targeting new and mid-level managers across Somalia.
Develop an online platform for leadership development, offering e-learning and mentoring opportunities.
Establish a Leadership Excellence Award to recognize outstanding leaders who promote good governance.

Institutional Governance and Capacity Building

To strengthen internal governance and ensure the efficient management of the institute’s resources.

Develop and enforce internal policies, procedures, and by-laws in alignment with the constitution.
Strengthen the role of the Assembly Committee and the Executive Committee.
Provide continuous professional development for staff members.

Financial Sustainability

To secure sustainable funding streams for the institute.

Diversify funding sources through partnerships, joint research proposals, fundraising, and donations.
Introduce a membership subscription model.
Develop a business model that leverages consulting services.

Public Engagement and Advocacy

To create platforms for public discussion and policy dialogue on leadership, governance, and citizenship.

Organize annual leadership summits and policy forums.
Build a strong media presence by regularly publishing thought leadership articles.
Foster community engagement by organizing local workshops.

Implementation Framework

IRIS shall adopt a performance management framework to successfully implement its Strategic Plan. The framework shall provide a basis for setting of performance targets, evaluation and rewarding or sanctioning of performance.

The management team shall develop strategy implementation team to coordinate implementation and make progress reports on a quarterly basis. The directorates, departments will take responsibility in their functional areas and report on a monthly basis.

Our Board

Board members information coming soon.

Institute for Research and Insight Studies (IRIS).