Djibouti Launches National Forum to Accelerate Solar Energy Transition

Djibouti, 12 November 2025 — Djibouti launched its first National Forum on Solar Energy Promotion (SFNES 2025) on Wednesday, marking a significant step toward accelerating the country’s transition to renewable energy and reducing reliance on fossil fuels. Hosted by the Ministry of Energy and Natural Resources, the event brought together officials from the United Nations, private sector stakeholders, researchers, and entrepreneurs specializing in solar technologies. Minister of Energy and Natural Resources Yonis Ali Guedi described the forum as “a strategic step to transform Djibouti’s abundant solar potential into a driver of sustainable development,” noting that under President Ismaïl Omar Guelleh’s Vision 2035, solar energy has been made a cornerstone of national growth. “Harnessing solar energy can play a central role in Djibouti’s energy future, benefiting the environment, economy, and society. The government is committed to supporting its development, promoting local production, rural electrification, and training engineers to strengthen national expertise” said Guedi. Key projects highlighted include the 25MW Grand Bara Solar Power Plant with battery storage, a rural electrification program using mini-solar plants, and the local production of photovoltaic panels adapted to Djibouti’s climate. The Minister also announced plans to establish a Solar Technologies Research Center (STAR-C) to train engineers and strengthen local expertise. UN Resident Coordinator José Barahona praised the government’s efforts to expand access to clean energy, stating, “Harnessing solar energy can make Djibouti a regional hub for green power, while reducing household energy costs and creating new jobs.” Participants discussed policy, financing, and innovation frameworks to accelerate solar adoption, emphasizing the need for public-private collaboration to ensure sector sustainability. The forum was organized in partnership with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), and the Joint SDG Fund. Organizers confirmed a second edition in 2026, underscoring Djibouti’s ongoing commitment to building a sustainable and equitable energy future.