By Mohamed Abdi - Reporter
Djibouti, 21 April 2026 Djibouti launched a pilot solar power project Monday to support rural communities and help them withstand resilience to recurring drought, authorities said.
The project, funded by Japan and implemented by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), is valued at $373,333 and will run for 12 months, according to a statement from Ministry of Energy.
It will target two villages — Yoboki in the Dikhil region and Omar Jaggaa in the Arta region — with the aim of improving access to electricity in underserved areas.
The launch ceremony was held at the Ministry of Energy and attended by Energy Minister Yonis Ali Guedi, Japan’s ambassador to Djibouti Okochi Akihiro, and UNDP Resident Representative, Alessandra Roccasalvo.The initiative seeks to expand access to solar energy for vulnerable households while supporting income-generating activities, particularly for women and young people.
It also includes plans to establish community-based maintenance systems and use solar solutions to improve access to water.
“Through this project, solar energy will serve the most vulnerable,” Roccasalvo said, describing it as an integrated approach combining energy access with local economic development.
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Japan’s ambassador said the project aligns with Tokyo’s priorities on green growth and climate resilience, while supporting Djibouti’s rural electrification efforts.
Energy Minister Guedi highlighted Djibouti’s strong solar potential and stressed the need to accelerate the energy transition to reduce reliance on fossil fuels.
“This project comes at the right time. It will provide rural communities with autonomous access to electricity and stimulate local economic development,” he said.
Djibouti aims to achieve 100 per cent clean energy by 2035, focusing on solar, wind and green growth strategies.
Officials said the pilot project could be expanded to other regions if it delivers positive results.