Kismayo University was officially established on 5th August 2005 in Kismayo City (Somalia), at a time when most of the intellectuals fled the country due to the civil conflict. The idea of establishing the university  was conceived by a group of former teachers and University lecturers that remained in the country despite the destruction of all academic institutions.

The foundation of Kismayo University (KU) was made possible by a charitable organization named Towfiq Welfare Society . The University is one of the largest and most respected institutions of higher learning in Somalia with more than 600 students enrolled in 2010 – 2011. The university has two fully furnished campuses in the city of Kismayo.

KU offers several degrees and diploma programs in Economics and Management Sciences, Education, Shari’a and Health Sciences. It is the only institute of its kind in Southern Somalia.

Kismayo University (KU) is a non-for-profit educational institution with no political affiliation and strives to provide excellent and outstanding educational programs that meet international standard.