Somalia Cultural Advisors
Overview
Buyer
Place of Performance
NAICS
PSC
Set Aside
Original Source
Timeline
Qualification Details
Fit reasons
- NAICS alignment with historical contract wins in similar service areas.
- Scope strongly matches core technical capabilities and delivery model.
Risks
- Past performance thresholds may require one additional teaming partner.
- Potential clarification needed on staffing minimums before bid/no-bid.
Next steps
Validate eligibility requirements, assign capture owner, and schedule partner outreach to confirm teaming strategy before submission planning.
Quick Summary
The Department of Defense, US Special Operations Command (USSOCOM), through its SOCAFRICA Contracting Office, is seeking to procure three (3) Cultural/Political Advisors for the Joint Special Operations Task Force - Somalia (JSOTF-SOM). This Presolicitation aims to identify advisors based in Mogadishu, Somalia, who can provide cultural context, facilitate high-level engagements, and offer linguistic support to U.S. military forces. Key requirements include a minimum of three years of experience as a cultural advisor in Somalia, an active TS/SCI security clearance, and ILR level 3 proficiency in English and Somali. Responses are due by April 16, 2026.
Scope of Work
The selected advisors will provide critical support to JSOTF-SOM and its subordinate commands. Responsibilities include:
- Delivering cultural and political advisory services to JSOTF-SOM leadership.
- Facilitating interpretation and translation between Somali and English.
- Advising on U.S. military operations/policy in relation to Somali culture/politics.
- Conducting research and supporting reporting products for JSOTF-SOM campaign plans and military objectives.
- Serving as liaisons and providing linguistic support.
Key Requirements & Qualifications
Candidates must possess:
- A minimum of three years of work experience as a cultural advisor in Somalia.
- An active TOP SECRET/SENSITIVE COMPARTMENTED INFORMATION (TS/SCI) security clearance.
- Demonstrated Interagency Language Roundtable (ILR) level 3 proficiency in both English and Somali.
- Aptitude, knowledge, interpersonal skills, linguistic ability, and established relationships necessary for operational support.
Contract & Timeline
- Opportunity Type: Presolicitation
- Product/Service Code: R499 (Other Professional Services)
- Anticipated Contract Structure: Includes a six-month Base Period with four six-month option periods.
- Set-Aside: None specified.
- Response Due: April 16, 2026, at 8:00 PM ET.
- Published Date: April 7, 2026.
Place of Performance
The primary place of performance is Mogadishu, Somalia. Travel may be required to other locations within Somalia, Djibouti, and Kenya.
Special Considerations
- Contractor personnel will operate in austere locations with potential risks, requiring the provision of personal protective equipment (PPE) for combat zone operations.
- The Government will provide housing and meals at the primary place of performance.
- Access to Sensitive Compartmented Information Facilities (SCIFs) will be required.