Mogadishu – Somalia has unveiled ambitious energy targets under its National Transformation Plan (NTP), pledging to expand electricity coverage from the current 69.1% to 80% in the coming years.
The plan, which positions sustainable energy as a cornerstone of national development, outlines strategic investments in a diversified energy mix to broaden the national grid and extend reliable power to rural communities and remote settlements.
Mandeq Haji Elmi, Energy Sector Lead Advisor at the Office of the Prime Minister, said the initiative will not only connect more households and businesses but also ensure equity in access. “The Plan underscores the imperative of equitable access, ensuring that all citizens benefit from adequate and affordable energy,” he noted.
A key commitment of the NTP is to cut electricity costs by half nationwide. High tariffs have long been a burden on Somali families and businesses, with some of the highest power prices in the world recorded in Mogadishu and other major cities. By reducing costs, the government hopes to foster inclusive economic growth and support long-term climate resilience.
Energy experts say the strategy’s emphasis on diversification will likely include scaling up renewables such as solar and wind, in addition to improving grid efficiency and exploring partnerships with private operators. Extending electricity access to underserved rural communities is also expected to boost agricultural productivity, education, and healthcare delivery.
The government has framed the energy drive as central to its broader economic reform agenda, which seeks to strengthen national resilience after decades of conflict and underinvestment. If successfully implemented, the NTP could mark a turning point in Somalia’s journey toward sustainable growth and improved quality of life for its citizens.