(24-Feb-23) Mogadishu, Somalia – USAID Somalia has issued a warning to the public about a fraudulent grant advertisement that has surfaced on Google and Facebook. The advertisement claims to be in partnership with the Ministry of Finance in Somalia and is inviting businesses to submit grant applications that include payment of an application fee.
In a statement released on the USAID Somalia Twitter account, the organization clarified that it is not partnering with the Ministry of Finance in Somalia on any grant opportunities at this time. It also confirmed that the alleged Business Support Fund is a scam, and urged its partners and the public to exercise caution whenever they come across grant application processes that require an application fee.
It has come to @USAIDSomalia‘s attention that an individual or a fictitious organization by the name Global Entrepreneurship Network posted a @USAID funded grant advertisement on Google and Facebook claiming to be in partnership with the @MoF_Somalia. pic.twitter.com/LtlxTJuSeE
— USAID Somalia (@USAIDSomalia) February 24, 2023
The U.S. Government is the largest donor of development and humanitarian assistance in Somalia, and it has reaffirmed its commitment to continue supporting the people and government of Somalia based on clear principles and values that both countries cherish. USAID Somalia has also confirmed that neither USAID nor its implementing partners in Somalia require applicants to pay any fees to participate in a USAID-funded program.
USAID Somalia also warned businesses and individuals to be cautious and vigilant when it comes to granting applications that require payment of an application fee. USAID Somalia has urged anyone who has been contacted by the alleged Global Entrepreneurship Network or any other organization claiming to offer grants in partnership with USAID to report the matter to the appropriate authorities.
