Somalia, 15 October 2025 — The Somali Achievers’ Forum officially opened today in Mogadishu, marking the start of a two-day national dialogue on Somalia’s transition to renewable energy and sustainable development.
Organized by Hormuud Telecom, the forum brings together senior government officials, private sector leaders, and energy experts under the theme “Somalia’s Energy Transition: Challenges, Opportunities, and Climate Impact.”
Energy and Water Resources Minister, Abdullahi Bidhan Warsame, announced that Somalia aims to reduce its dependence on imported fuel by half and generate 50 per cent of its electricity from renewable sources within three years — a move designed to make energy cleaner, cheaper, and more accessible.
“Nearly half of Somalis, around 49 per cent, still lack access to electricity. This is far below the African average of 65 per cent, showing that we still have a long way to go,” said Minister Bidhaan.
“About 85 per cent of Somalia’s electricity is currently generated from imported fuel. We are committed to cutting fuel dependence, aiming to reduce it to 50 per cent over the next three years, with the remaining 50 per cent powered by solar energy, to deliver cleaner and more affordable electricity for our people,” he added.
Hormuud Telecom Chairman, Ahmed Mohamud Yusuf, emphasized the private sector’s leadership in advancing clean energy solutions:
“About 85 per cent of Somalia’s electricity is generated from fossil fuels. At Hormuud, we’ve chosen to harness the natural resources that God has blessed us with. Around 90 per cent of our facilities are now powered by solar energy, a step towards protecting our environment and promoting sustainability.”
Religious and academic figures at the forum also stressed the moral and environmental responsibility of embracing renewable energy. Somali scholar Sheikh Abdi-Hayi Sheikh Adam said solar energy should be seen as a divine blessing that can improve lives.
“The heat of the sun should not only be felt but also appreciated as a blessing from God that can generate electricity. We must use the sunlight that the Almighty has granted us, as Somalia is richly endowed with it,” he noted.
Somali Chamber of Commerce Chairman Mahamud Abdikarin Gabeyre applauded local energy firms for lowering electricity costs and improving service delivery.
“After the collapse of the government, local enterprises began building water wells and ice factories that also produced electricity. Later, companies merged to form BECO, Mogadishu Power, and Blue Sky. These firms have been the backbone of national progress, reducing electricity prices from $1.5 to $0.41 per kilowatt-hour.”
Energy expert Abdulkadir Abikar Hussein called for sustained investment in hydroelectric dams along the Jubba and Shabelle rivers to promote energy independence and agricultural growth:
“The Jubba and Shabelle rivers could be used for constructing dams. Earlier projects such as Faanoole proved that Somalis can successfully build water reservoirs. These dams can generate electricity, support irrigation, and store water for the dry season.”
The Somali Achievers’ Forum will continue tomorrow with panel discussions on renewable energy investment, climate resilience, and policy reforms shaping Somalia’s clean energy future.
