Cultural Research
Comprehensive studies on Somali oral literature, history and customary systems.
Historic Mogadishu
We research the places that hold our shared memory.
HCRCD studies and documents historic Somali architecture so its stories can inform future generations.
Hanshow Centre for Research and Culture Development
Executive Summary
Bridging gaps in Somali scholarship since February 2019
The Hanshow Centre for Research and Culture Development (HCRCD) is an independent, non-profit intellectual institution established in February 2019 and headquartered in Mogadishu, Somalia.
Founded to bridge critical gaps in Somali cultural preservation and intellectual scholarship, HCRCD serves as a platform dedicated to rigorous academic research, cultural revitalisation, historical documentation and community empowerment.
Read the full summary2019
Founded in Mogadishu
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Pillars of mandate
Non-profit
Independent institution
East Africa
Scope of ambition
Research & Heritage Highlights
Heritage Preservation
Safeguarding historical landmarks, artifacts and indigenous knowledge systems.
Policy Advocacy
Evidence-based recommendations to institutions on culture and development.
Capacity Building
Specialised training for youth, researchers and community leaders.
What's On
Upcoming events
Festival
Somali Heritage Festival — Dhaqan Celis
A full-day festival of Somali poetry, weaving, henna, traditional cuisine and regional craft pavilions, closed by an evening concert of heeso hidde.
Thursday, 15 October 2026
Peace Garden, Mogadishu
Dance performance
Dhaanto & Buraanbur Performance Night
An evening of Dhaanto, Buraanbur, Saylici and Jaandheer performed by community troupes from Hiiraan, Bay and Banaadir, with live drumming and a short talk on dance lineage.
Friday, 6 November 2026
National Theatre of Somalia, Mogadishu
Workshop
Aqal Soomaali Craft Workshop
Master weavers guide young participants through building an Aqal Soomaali — mat weaving, frame binding and the vocabulary of pastoral architecture.
Saturday, 21 November 2026
HCRCD Training Hall, Mogadishu
Working Together
Our Partners
Institutions advancing research, education, language and cultural development alongside HCRCD.
