Solar Power and Environmental Peacebuilding in South-central Somalia

STOCKHOLM - SIPRI has published a policy brief that explores the peacebuilding potential of solar energy projects.

In Somalia, widespread energy poverty and a heavy reliance on conventional energy sources are deeply linked to ongoing conflict dynamics. Dependence on firewood and charcoal worsens environmental degradation and intensifies competition over natural resources. These challenges are further exacerbated by the effects of climate change and limited access to basic services. To address these interconnected challenges, the International Organization for Migration (IOM) in Somalia is advancing rural electrification through solar power as part of a broader environmental peacebuilding strategy.

This SIPRI Policy Brief explores how the IOM’s approach to solar power and the facilitation of local public–private partnerships (PPPs) can support environmental peacebuilding at three levels: the community level, the local business level and the district council level. By creating local PPP agreements to implement solar power projects, the initiatives aim to foster cooperation, reduce resource-based tensions and strengthen government legitimacy in south-central Somalia. The brief shares learnings from early implementation stages and provides recommendations for donors and implementing organizations seeking to enhance the peacebuilding potential of solar energy projects.

About the authors

Ann-Sophie Böhle is a Research Assistant in the SIPRI Climate Change and Risk Programme.

Kheira Tarif is a Researcher in the SIPRI Climate Change and Risk Programme.

To download the full paper, visit: https://www.sipri.org/sites/default/files/2025-02/pb_2502_solar_power_and_environmental_peacebuilding.pdf