Dahabshiil CEO Abdirashid Duale honoured with Global Somali Leadership Award

Abdirashid Duale, Chief Executive Officer of Dahabshiil Group./HANDOUT

Abdirashid Duale, the CEO of Africa’s leading money transfer company, Dahabshiil, has been honoured with the prestigious Leadership Award at the Global Somali Awards 2025.

The ceremony, held in Columbus, Ohio — a hub for the Somali diaspora—celebrated the resilience, ingenuity, and contributions of Somali leaders across the globe.

The award recognises Duale’s visionary leadership and tireless commitment to advancing financial inclusion and economic empowerment for millions.

Under his stewardship, Dahabshiil Group has evolved into the largest Somali-owned enterprise, with a presence in more than 130 countries, including Kenya, and a vital role in connecting the Somali diaspora with their homeland.

Building upon the legacy of his father, Haji Mohamed S. Duale, Abdirashid has led Dahabshiil’s expansion from a modest remittance service into a multi-faceted financial powerhouse.

Its offerings now include Dahabshiil Money Transfer, Dahabshil Bank, DahabPlus, and eDahab—platforms that have become lifelines for families and businesses across continents.

In his acceptance speech, Duale expressed deep gratitude to the organizers and dedicated the award to the Dahabshiil Group team and Somali communities worldwide.

“This award is a testament to the resilience and ambition of the Somali people,” he said.

“At Dahabshiil, we remain committed to driving progress, supporting our diaspora, and building a brighter future for all.”

The award also shines a light on a remarkable family story—one that turned the pain of war and displacement into a global enterprise.

“I often say I didn’t find Dahabshiil—Dahabshiil found me,” said Duale. “It was rooted in the struggles of our people and shaped by the values of our family.”

Today, Dahabshiil is the largest African‑owned money transfer company in the world, serving customers in over 160 countries.

Under Duale’s stewardship, it has become a vital link between Somali communities and their homelands, providing affordable remittance services, mobile money, banking, and telecommunications.

What sets Duale apart, award organizers said, is his deep commitment to serving those often overlooked by traditional financial institutions.

“He embodies the mission of inclusive finance,” the awards committee stated.

“Duale has built not just a company, but a platform of stability and hope across fragile and underserved regions.”

From its humble beginnings in a small office, Dahabshiil has grown into a global enterprise, partnering with governments, NGOs, and international development institutions to deliver critical services in remote and post‑conflict areas.

Yet, despite its growth, the company remains firmly rooted in the values of community and resilience that shaped its founding.

A passionate philanthropist, Duale has also invested deeply in the Horn of Africa and beyond—supporting education, youth training, health services, disaster relief, and other humanitarian causes.

Each year, a significant portion of Dahabshiil’s profits is channeled into vital development and relief efforts.

“This recognition is not just for me,” said Duale. “It’s for the hardworking families, the migrants, and the entrepreneurs who refused to give up. This is their story too.”

Through hard work, vision, and a profound sense of service, Abdirashid Duale has positioned Dahabshiil as both a global business powerhouse and a beacon of hope—a testament to the strength and resilience of the Somali people.