Overall objective: To prevent conflict and improve economic development of Somali people and reverse loss of biodiversity through provision of sustainable energy services.
Specific objective: To engage non state actors in the promotion of alternative energy activities in Somaliland.
The role of energy in development and poverty reduction cannot be overemphasized. Energy is central to sustainable development and poverty reduction efforts. It affects all aspects of development - social, economic, and environmental, including livelihoods, access to water, agricultural productivity, health, population levels, education, and gender-related issues. Energy and energy services are an important part of reconstruction of the Somaliland economy that is in the process of economic and social transformation after the war.
The NSA's Project aims at tackling the challenges that hinder Non State Actors (NSAs) specifically, from engaging in energy project design and implementation in Somaliland, especially targeting resource poor communities. ADRA has engaged a number of non-state actors in energy development process and has trained them on renewable and conventional energy systems such as solar photovoltaic, improved biomass cook stoves, solar cooking and water heaters, wind energy, development of mini-grid systems, energy policy formulation, advocacy and dissemination; and undertaking energy data collection for planning purposes. Emerging lessons from projects implemented indicate that most of the NSA and stakeholders trained are not able to apply skills imparted to them due to lack of resources, such as start-up capital, grants, tools, etc amongst other challenges. In addition, there has been limited dialogue among NSAs themselves and among NSAs and the administration on Somaliland – This Project will enhance dialogue at all levels. Lastly, general awareness on energy issues and their impact on poverty and conflict reduction is lacking in Somaliland. This Project will lead to greater awareness among members of the public on alternative energy options.
The project is targeting 700 individuals from 70 organizations that participated in the initial ADRA-led energy policy process leading to the development of a draft energy policy for Somaliland. The project is specifically targetting women and youth who are most affected by poverty, resource conflict and poor energy services and will involve established neighborhood committees, women groups and vocational youth training institutions, who are the core target group. They will participate in all activities implemented within the programme.
