By Asha Elmi - Reporter
Somalia, July 11 2026 – Somalia on Saturday launched a World Bank-backed solar power project to provide reliable electricity to schools and health centres in North East State, to strengthen public services and expand renewable energy access.
The inauguration ceremony was attended by North East State President Abdulqadir Ahmed Aw-Ali, Somalia's Minister of Energy and Water Resources Abdullahi Bidhaan Warsame, federal and regional ministers, lawmakers and officials from government institutions.
According to the Energy Ministry, the project will provide free electricity to health and education facilities in areas where it is being implemented to improve quality of public services and strengthening basic infrastructure.
The project forms part of the Somali Electricity Sector Recovery Project (SESRP), a World Bank-financed programme to expand electricity access and strengthen Somalia's energy infrastructure.
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Under the programme, hybrid solar photovoltaic (PV) systems with battery energy storage will be installed at 23 education facilities and 22 health facilities in North East State, according to project procurement documents. The contract also includes one year of operation and maintenance after installation.
Officials said the project is expected to improve the reliability of electricity for schools and health centres, reducing reliance on diesel generators while supporting the delivery of healthcare and education services.
The Somali Electricity Sector Recovery Project is one of several World Bank-backed initiatives aimed at expanding access to reliable electricity and increasing the use of renewable energy across Somalia.