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Somalia has taken a big step toward improving access to clean and reliable energy after Prime Minister Hamsa Abdi Barre officially launched a new nationwide electrification project on Wednesday. The initiative will provide free electricity to 150 health facilities across the country, marking one of the most ambitious energy projects in recent years.
Speaking during the inauguration, the Prime Minister said Somalis have for decades struggled with a lack of dependable electricity, particularly in crucial sectors such as healthcare and education. He noted that this challenge has slowed down development and denied citizens essential services that depend on constant and stable power. According to him, the new electrification project is designed to begin addressing these gaps by ensuring that vital institutions like hospitals, health centers, and schools can operate without disruption.
The Prime Minister described the project as a major step in the government’s wider plan to strengthen infrastructure and deliver better services to the public. He emphasized that the electricity will be generated from clean, environmentally friendly sources, underscoring the government’s commitment to sustainable energy solutions. This, he said, is part of a vision to ensure that Somalis not only gain access to power but also benefit from modern, eco-friendly energy that supports the fight against climate change.
“The government has focused on ensuring that people have access to high-quality electricity and education,” Hamsa said during the ceremony. “This project will improve the quality of public services and give citizens the chance to access energy that is affordable and reliable.”
He stressed that electricity is central to the development of Somalia, especially in health facilities where medical equipment, lighting, and refrigeration are needed daily to save lives. Without power, many health services have been forced to rely on costly and unreliable generators, making it difficult to offer consistent care. The Prime Minister reiterated that this project is not just about providing energy but about transforming the quality of life for citizens, especially those in vulnerable communities.
Officials who attended the launch praised the project, calling it a milestone in Somalia’s development journey. They said the initiative reflects the Federal Government’s determination to improve living conditions and accelerate progress after years of limited energy access. Many of them highlighted that the decision to use green energy is equally important, as it positions Somalia to build a more sustainable energy future while reducing dependence on traditional fuels that are both expensive and environmentally damaging.
Somalia’s transition to clean energy is expected to create long-term benefits, including lowering the cost of electricity for households and businesses, reducing carbon emissions, and encouraging investment in renewable energy projects. The government hopes that these steps will help lay the foundation for economic growth, innovation, and improved service delivery across the country.
Prime Minister Hamsa also pointed out that this is only the beginning. He assured citizens that the government is committed to extending electrification to all regions of Somalia, ensuring that no community is left behind. He explained that while health facilities are the starting point, the broader vision includes reaching schools, businesses, and households nationwide. By expanding access to electricity, the government aims to create an environment where people can pursue education, healthcare, and economic opportunities without being held back by power shortages.
For many Somalis, this project represents hope and progress. It symbolizes a future where families can access reliable healthcare, students can learn in well-lit classrooms, and communities can thrive with the support of modern infrastructure. With the launch of this electrification initiative, Somalia is moving closer to building a country where energy is not a privilege for the few but a right for all.