Overview
Benadir University (BU) is a private non‑profit higher education institution in Mogadishu, founded in 2002 by Somali physicians and academics to address the severe shortage of qualified professionals in post‑conflict Somalia. Since then, it has grown into a multi‑campus university serving between approximately 5,000 to nearly 14,000 students across campuses in Mogadishu and branch locations in Afgoi, Kismayo, and Jowhar. BU is formally accredited by Somalia’s Ministry of Education and recognized by global bodies including QAHE and USHEAC, reflecting its commitment to academic quality and relevance.
The university offers over a dozen faculties including Medicine & Surgery, Engineering, Sharia & Law, Economics & Business, Computer Science & IT, Agriculture, Veterinary Science, Marine Science, Public Health, and Education. Instruction is delivered in English, Arabic, and Somali, embracing blended learning methods to support both campus-based and distance students. BU emphasizes practical learning, community engagement, and capacity‑building in fields critical to Somalia’s development.
2. General Information
| Name | Benadir University |
| Established | 2002 |
| Type | Private, non‑profit university |
| Location | Mogadishu (main campuses at Km 13 Dr‑Shahiid and Prof Ibrahim Addow); branches in Afgoi, Kismayo, Jowhar |
| Students | ≈ 9,000–13,700 (estimates vary) |
| Faculties | Medicine & Surgery; Health Sciences; Engineering & Technology; Economics & Management; Sharia & Law; Computer Science & IT; Agriculture & Environment; Veterinary Science; Marine Science; Education; Social Sciences; Postgraduate Studies |
| Website | https://bu.edu.so |
3. Fee Structure
| Program | Tuition Fee (per year, USD) |
| Local undergraduate or postgraduate students | ≈ $1,000–2,500/year |
| International students | ≈ $2,500–5,000/year depending on program |
4. Academic Programs
- Bachelor’s, Master’s, and some Doctoral programs across diverse faculties
- Professional degrees in Medicine & Surgery, Nursing, Pharmacy, Dentistry, Public Health
- Engineering disciplines including Civil, Mechanical, Electrical, and IT
- Programs in Business, Economics, Accounting, Management, and Finance
- Fields of Law & Sharia, Education, Marine Science, Agriculture, Veterinary Science, and Social Sciences
- Postgraduate studies and certificate programs available through a dedicated school
5. Facilities
- Campuses located in urban Mogadishu including Dr‑Shahiid and Addow campuses, plus regional branches
- Modern classrooms, computer labs, libraries and digital learning infrastructure
- Medical training facilities linked to Digfeer Hospital on medical campus
- Student services including career guidance, clubs, community outreach and sports facilities
- Peace and Innovation Centre supported by Iftiin Foundation, promoting social entrepreneurship and community leadership
6. Accommodation
Benadir University does not manage dormitories. Most students, including those from abroad, arrange private or shared accommodation in Mogadishu. University staff provide guidance and referrals through student services to help identify safe and affordable options.
- Local rental housing near campus, often shared rooms (estimated monthly cost USD 55–140)
- Referrals and advice on trusted landlords and housing arrangements
7. Contact Information
- Email: info@benadiruniversity.so (general enquiries)
- Phone: +252 61 555 4000 or +252 611 678383 (Mogadishu office)
- Address: Wadada Jaamacadda Benadir, behind Seybiyano, Hodan district, Mogadishu, Banaadir, Somalia
Explore More Universities Somali
- Somali National University
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