In recent years, the Somali community has embraced social media with an enthusiasm that has transformed their digital landscape. With a growing internet user base across the Somali regions, platforms like YouTube, TikTok, Facebook, and Snapchat have become central to daily life. These platforms are not just for connecting with friends and family—they have become essential tools for sharing news, creating comedy, showcasing music and fashion, promoting health, and growing small businesses.

Social media has a significant influence in Somalia, cutting across different age groups and connecting a broad spectrum of people. From children to the elderly, there is widespread engagement with these platforms. This involvement goes beyond just entertainment—it has also created new opportunities for earning income and advancing business ventures.

TikTok, in particular, has emerged as a powerhouse of creativity and commerce. The platform's short, engaging video format is perfect for the Somali community's vibrant storytelling tradition. Whether it's through viral challenges, comedic skits, or heartfelt messages, Somali users have found a global stage on TikTok.

One of the standout success stories from Somali TikTok is Nimco Happy. Her song "Isii Nafta" went viral on the platform, captivating audiences around the globe. Sung in Somali, Arabic, Swahili, and English, the song became a universal anthem of love and unity, crossing linguistic and cultural divides. Nimco Happy's rise to international fame through TikTok highlights the platform's ability to amplify voices and create global stars.

Nimco's success is not an isolated incident. Many Somali TikTokers have used the platform to build their personal brands and monetise their content. Viral challenges, in particular, have become a significant trend, with users participating in dance challenges, comedy sketches, and other creative ventures that often lead to sponsorship deals and brand collaborations.

For small businesses in Somalia, social media presents a unique growth opportunity. Entrepreneurs leverage these platforms to reach wider audiences, display their products, and interact with customers instantly. Whether it's a fashion store, a local restaurant, or a health and wellness service, social media has become an essential tool for marketing and customer engagement.

The ability to create content that resonates with a global audience means that Somali businesses are not limited by geography. They can attract customers from all over the world, tapping into the Somali diaspora and beyond. This global reach is important for business sustainability and growth, providing a much-needed boost to the local economy.

Despite the beneficial effects of social media, the relationship between the Somali government and these platforms has been complicated. Attempts to ban TikTok, driven by concerns over content regulation and national security, have encountered strong opposition from the community. For many, social media is essential for personal expression and economic opportunities, making these platforms vital for modern Somali life. This resistance underscores the crucial role of social media in keeping people informed, connected, and economically active. The transformative potential of social media for driving social and economic change in Somalia is immense.

As the internet continues to grow in Somalia, the influence of social media is set to expand even further. Platforms like TikTok will likely play an increasingly critical role in economic opportunities. For the Somali community, this digital revolution offers a chance to tell their stories, promote their businesses, and connect with the world in ways that were previously unimaginable.

The story of Somali TikTok is one of innovation. It demonstrates how a community can harness the power of technology to overcome challenges and create new pathways for success. As more Somali creators and entrepreneurs join the digital economy, the future looks bright for a region that is rapidly becoming a vibrant hub of social media activity and business innovation.