Baku forum to strenghten Somalia-Azerbaijan ties in energy, official says

The Baku Energy Forum is becoming a vital platform for strengthening energy cooperation between Somalia and Azerbaijan, Somalia’s Energy and Water Resources Minister Abdullahi Bidhaan Warsame said. 

Speaking at the 30th Anniversary Baku Energy Forum, Warsame highlighted Somalia’s ongoing efforts to reform its energy sector as part of the country’s National Transformation Plan, Caliber.Az reports via local media.

"Guided by the National Transformation Plan, Somalia is implementing large-scale initiatives to expand access to electricity, harness the potential of renewable energy sources, and strengthen climate resilience," the minister noted.

He recalled that Somalia and Azerbaijan had signed a memorandum of understanding to enhance cooperation in renewable energy development, capacity building, and knowledge sharing.

"I am confident that the Baku Energy Forum will provide a strategic platform for interaction with global technical, financial and political partners. This will support reforms in Somalia's energy sector and our efforts to ensure a sustainable and inclusive energy future," Warsame added.

Warsame also announced that Somalia has built a solar power plant capable of producing at least 800 megawatts of renewable energy. He stressed the country’s commitment to prioritisiing green energy over fossil fuels and attracting investment in clean energy solutions.

"Somalia has all the necessary resources and potential for this. The country is going through a transformational period of recovery and institution building, and energy reforms are central to our national development strategy," he added.

By Sabina Mammadli