ACTIVE

Advancing Circular Technologies for Infrastructure and Value-chain Enhancement in Somalia (ACTIVE) Project

Project Brief

Duration: 40-months (2024-2028)

Donor: European Commission

Partners: Adventist Development and Relief Agency, UK (ADRA UK) Key Stakeholders: Somali government ministries (MoAI, MoEWR, MoPIED), local financial institutions, civil society organizations, and private sector actors Technical Partners: Windle International, Rural Education and Agriculture Development Organisation (READO), and GIZ

Project Location

Banadir Regional Administration, Hirshabelle, Jubbaland, Southwest, Puntland, and Somaliland

Target Group

Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) in the energy and agri-food sectors Farmers, pastoralists, and fisherfolk in targeted regions Women and youth entrepreneurs engaged in renewable energy and food production Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) and marginalized communities Renewable energy providers and private sector businesses Local government authorities and civil society organizations

Project Description

The ACTIVE Project aims to enhance renewable energy access, promote circular economy practices, and strengthen agri-food value chains across Somalia. The project focuses on providing sustainable, on-grid and off-grid energy solutions to households and Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) through a market-driven approach that fosters economic growth and resilience.

ACTIVE addresses Somalia’s pressing energy challenges, including limited access to electricity, high energy costs, and environmental degradation due to excessive biomass exploitation. The project targets six key value chains—fishing, livestock (including dairy), dry cereals, sesame and sesame oil, and water—by integrating renewable energy into processing, storage, and market infrastructure. By aligning with the EU’s Green Deal and the Great Green Wall Initiative, the project ensures long-term climate resilience, economic empowerment, and improved livelihoods for Somali communities.

Project Objective

Expand renewable energy access for Somali communities, MSMEs, and value chain operators to improve productivity and economic growth. Enhance agri-food value chains by supporting infrastructure development, including solar-powered irrigation, food processing facilities, and storage systems. Promote circular economy practices by introducing waste management, recycling, and sustainable resource utilization within key sectors. Strengthen multi-stakeholder coordination through partnerships with government agencies, private sector players, and development organizations to improve policy frameworks and investment in renewable energy. Improve community resilience by providing technical training, financing opportunities, and sustainable energy solutions for vulnerable populations.