SDGs Somalia - Sustainable Development Goals

Sustainable Development Report 2025

Sustainable Development Goals in Somalia: Progress, Challenges, and Future Outlook

The Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) represent a global blueprint for peace and prosperity. These 17 interconnected goals address humanity’s most pressing challenges by 2030. Somalia adopted the SDGs in 2015 alongside 193 other UN member states.

Somalia faces unique challenges in implementing the SDGs. Decades of conflict have weakened institutions and infrastructure. However, the country shows determination to achieve sustainable development. Progress varies across different goals and regions.

History and Background of SDGs in Somalia

The 2030 Agenda Adoption

Somalia officially embraced the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development in September 2015. The country committed to achieving all 17 SDGs by 2030. This commitment came during a critical period of state-building and recovery. The Federal Government of Somalia integrated SDGs into national planning frameworks. They aligned the goals with local priorities and challenges. Somalia’s unique context required adapted implementation strategies.

Integration with National Development Plans

The Ninth Somalia National Development Plan (NDP-9) 2020-2024 directly incorporates SDG principles. This plan provides a roadmap for economic growth and poverty reduction. It mirrors the four strategic priorities of the UN Cooperation Framework. Previous national development plans also reflected SDG commitments. The integration ensures coherent policy implementation. However, capacity constraints limit effective execution.

Current Progress on the 17 SDGs, 2025

SDG 1: No Poverty

Somalia faces significant poverty challenges. Over 70% of the population lives below the poverty line. Rural areas experience higher poverty rates than urban centers.

Progress remains limited due to ongoing conflicts. Economic opportunities are scarce in many regions. However, some areas show gradual improvement through targeted interventions.

SDG 2: Zero Hunger

Food insecurity affects millions of Somalis. Climate change and conflicts disrupt agricultural production. Humanitarian assistance provides essential support to vulnerable populations.

Agricultural development programs show promise. Small-scale farmers receive training and resources. However, achieving zero hunger requires sustained efforts and investment.

SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being

Healthcare systems require significant strengthening. Maternal and child mortality rates remain high. Infectious diseases pose ongoing threats to public health.

SDG 16 (peace, justice, and strong institutions) has a strong influence on progress on other SDGs as well as progress on SDG 3 (good health and well-being). This connection highlights the importance of institutional stability for health outcomes.

International partners support health system development. Vaccination campaigns have expanded coverage. Nevertheless, healthcare access remains limited in remote areas.

SDG 4: Quality Education

Education infrastructure requires massive investment. School enrollment rates remain low, especially for girls. Teacher training and educational materials need improvement.

Primary education has seen some progress. More children attend school than in previous years. However, quality concerns persist across all educational levels.

SDG 5: Gender Equality

Women face significant discrimination and barriers. Political participation remains limited despite quota systems. Economic opportunities for women are particularly scarce.

Women’s rights organizations advocate for policy changes. Some progress occurs in urban areas. However, traditional attitudes resist gender equality initiatives.

SDG 6: Clean Water and Sanitation

Water access remains a critical challenge. Many communities lack safe drinking water sources. Sanitation facilities are inadequate in most areas.

Drought conditions worsen water scarcity. International support funds water infrastructure projects. Progress occurs slowly due to technical and financial constraints.

SDG 7: Affordable and Clean Energy

Energy access is extremely limited throughout Somalia. Most rural areas lack electricity infrastructure. Urban centers have intermittent power supply.

Solar energy projects show potential for expansion. Private sector involvement increases energy access. However, affordability remains a significant barrier.

SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth

Unemployment rates are exceptionally high. Youth unemployment poses particular challenges. Formal sector employment opportunities are limited.

Small business development receives support through various programs. Entrepreneurship training helps create job opportunities. However, economic growth requires substantial structural changes.

SDG 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure

Infrastructure development lags significantly behind regional averages. Transportation networks need major improvements. Communication technology expands gradually.

Mobile technology adoption increases rapidly. Digital financial services grow in urban areas. However, rural connectivity remains poor.

SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities

Income inequality remains high across Somalia. Regional disparities are particularly pronounced. Clan-based discrimination affects access to opportunities.

Social protection programs address some inequality issues. However, systematic approaches are needed for meaningful progress.

SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities

Urban planning faces significant challenges. Rapid urbanization strains existing infrastructure. Housing shortages affect major cities.

Community-based development approaches show promise. Local governance initiatives improve service delivery. However, sustainable urban development requires long-term planning.

SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production

Resource management practices need improvement. Waste management systems are inadequate. Sustainable production methods receive limited attention.

Environmental awareness campaigns increase gradually. However, immediate survival needs often override sustainability concerns.

SDG 13: Climate Action

Climate change severely impacts Somalia. Drought and flooding occur with increasing frequency. Agricultural productivity suffers from climate variability.

Adaptation strategies receive international support. Community-based approaches build resilience. However, mitigation efforts require substantial investment.

SDG 14: Life Below Water

Coastal degradation threatens marine ecosystems. Overfishing affects fish populations. Pollution from land-based sources increases.

Marine conservation efforts receive limited attention. Fishing communities need sustainable livelihood alternatives. International cooperation is essential for ocean protection.

SDG 15: Life on Land

Land degradation affects agricultural productivity. Deforestation continues due to charcoal production. Biodiversity loss threatens ecosystem services.

Reforestation projects show positive results. Community-based natural resource management expands. However, alternative livelihoods are needed for sustainability.

SDG 16: Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions

Institutional capacity remains weak throughout Somalia. Rule of law faces significant challenges. Corruption undermines development efforts.

Peace-building initiatives receive substantial support. Judicial system reforms are underway. However, achieving lasting peace requires continued commitment.

SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals

International partnerships are essential for Somalia’s development. Development cooperation provides crucial resources. South-south cooperation expands gradually.

Coordination among partners improves over time. However, aid effectiveness remains a concern. Local ownership of development processes needs strengthening.

Key Organizations and Their Roles

United Nations Development Programme (UNDP)

UNDP is the leading UN organization fighting to end the injustice of poverty, inequality and climate change in Somalia. They provide technical assistance and capacity building support.

UNDP implements programs across multiple SDGs. They focus on governance, economic development, and environmental protection. Their work supports national development priorities.

United Nations Country Team (UNCT)

The UN Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework (2021-2025) is the UN’s multi-year strategic plan to guide the UN’s collective contribution to the realization of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and the Sustainable Development Goals in Somalia.

The UNCT coordinates UN efforts across all agencies. They align programs with national priorities. Regular monitoring ensures effective implementation.

World Bank Group

The World Bank provides financial and technical support. They focus on infrastructure development and poverty reduction. Their programs target multiple SDGs simultaneously.

International Development Association (IDA) provides concessional financing. This support helps Somalia access development resources. Project implementation requires strong partnerships.

African Development Bank (AfDB)

AfDB supports regional development initiatives. They provide financing for infrastructure projects. Their work complements other development partners’ efforts.

The bank focuses on energy, transportation, and agriculture. Regional integration projects receive particular attention. South-south cooperation opportunities expand.

Islamic Development Bank (IsDB)

IsDB provides Sharia-compliant financing options. They support education and healthcare initiatives. Their cultural understanding facilitates program implementation.

The bank focuses on capacity building and institutional development. Technical assistance complements financial support. Long-term partnerships strengthen development outcomes.

European Union (EU)

EU provides substantial development assistance to Somalia. They support governance and security initiatives. Their programs address multiple SDGs comprehensively.

The EU Trust Fund for Somalia channels resources effectively. Budget support strengthens government capacity. Policy dialogue improves coordination.

Somalia Joint Fund

The Somalia Joint Fund accelerates the UN’s contribution to sustainable and peaceful development in Somalia by providing a platform for joint policy and strategic dialogue that translates into high-quality and flexible programming across seven priority areas.

This fund improves coordination among development partners. It reduces transaction costs and improves efficiency. Seven priority areas receive focused attention.

Important People and Leaders

Prime Minister Hamza Abdi Barre

Prime Minister Barre leads national development efforts. He prioritizes SDG implementation in government policies. His leadership focuses on institutional strengthening.

Under his guidance, the government increases development spending. International partnerships expand significantly. However, political stability remains challenging.

President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud

President Mohamud champions sustainable development initiatives. He advocates for international support and cooperation. His leadership emphasizes peace-building and reconciliation.

The President’s vision includes achieving middle-income status by 2030. This ambitious goal requires accelerated SDG implementation. Political will remains essential for success.

UN Resident Coordinator Adam Abdelmoula

Coordinator Abdelmoula leads UN efforts in Somalia. He coordinates development assistance across agencies. His leadership ensures coherent UN support.

Under his guidance, the UN framework aligns with national priorities. Partnership building receives particular attention. Results-based management improves effectiveness.

Minister of Planning Gamal Mohamed Hassan

Minister Hassan oversees national development planning. He ensures SDG integration into government policies. His work coordinates donor support effectively.

The Ministry of Planning leads SDG implementation efforts. Regular monitoring and evaluation improve program effectiveness. Capacity building remains a priority.

Dr. Fowzia Yusuf Haji Adan

Former Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Adan advocates for sustainable development. She champions women’s rights and gender equality. Her leadership inspires policy changes.

Dr. Adan’s work focuses on inclusive development approaches. She promotes international cooperation and partnership. Her advocacy strengthens Somalia’s global engagement.

Challenges and Obstacles

Security and Conflict

Ongoing insecurity undermines development efforts. Al-Shabaab activities disrupt program implementation. Security concerns limit access to vulnerable populations.

Conflict affects all SDGs simultaneously. Resources divert from development to security. However, peace-building efforts receive increasing attention.

Weak Institutional Capacity

Government institutions lack technical expertise. Human resource constraints limit program implementation. Capacity building requires sustained investment.

Corruption undermines development effectiveness. Transparency and accountability mechanisms need strengthening. Good governance remains essential for progress.

Climate Change and Environmental Degradation

Climate variability affects agricultural productivity. Droughts and floods occur with increasing frequency. Environmental degradation threatens sustainable development.

Adaptation strategies require substantial investment. Community resilience building receives attention. However, mitigation efforts need expansion.

Limited Financial Resources

Domestic resource mobilization remains weak. Tax collection capacity is inadequate. Dependence on external assistance continues.

By early 2024, Somalia will be able to access significant new resources, such as concessional loans and credit from international financial institutions. This development opens new financing opportunities.

Coordination Challenges

Multiple actors work independently. Coordination mechanisms need strengthening. Duplication of efforts reduces effectiveness.

Information sharing improves gradually. Joint programming initiatives expand. However, harmonization requires continued effort.

Regional Variations in Progress

Somaliland

Somaliland demonstrates relatively better progress. Political stability enables development programs. Education and healthcare systems show improvement.

Democratic institutions function more effectively. Economic growth occurs steadily. However, limited international recognition constrains resources.

Puntland

Puntland shows mixed results across different SDGs. Some areas experience significant progress. However, challenges persist in remote regions.

Local governance systems function relatively well. Economic opportunities expand gradually. Maritime security remains a concern.

South-Central Somalia

This region faces the greatest challenges. Insecurity limits development program implementation. Humanitarian needs remain high.

International support focuses on basic service delivery. Peace-building initiatives receive priority attention. However, sustainable development requires improved security.

Success Stories and Best Practices

Mobile Money and Financial Inclusion

Digital financial services expand rapidly across Somalia. Mobile money systems improve access to financial services. This development supports multiple SDGs simultaneously.

The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in Somalia and Visa, a global leader in digital payments have signed a partnership agreement aimed at helping accelerate the implementation of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in Somalia through digital financial inclusion and digital transformation.

These partnerships demonstrate innovative approaches to development. Technology enables leapfrogging traditional infrastructure. Rural populations benefit from improved access.

Community-Based Approaches

Local communities drive development initiatives. Traditional leadership structures support program implementation. Community ownership ensures sustainability.

Women’s groups play crucial roles in development. They implement health and education programs. Their participation improves program effectiveness.

Diaspora Engagement

Somali diaspora communities contribute significantly to development. Remittances provide essential resources. Knowledge transfer strengthens local capacity.

Investment opportunities attract diaspora capital. Business partnerships create employment. However, formal mechanisms need strengthening.

International Support and Partnerships

Bilateral Partnerships

Key bilateral partners include Turkey, UAE, and European countries. They provide diverse forms of assistance. Technical cooperation strengthens institutional capacity.

These partnerships address specific development needs. Cultural understanding facilitates program implementation. Long-term commitments ensure continuity.

Multilateral Initiatives

International financial institutions provide substantial support. They coordinate assistance effectively. Policy dialogue improves program design.

Regional organizations contribute to development efforts. African Union support strengthens continental integration. IGAD facilitates regional cooperation.

Private Sector Engagement

Private sector involvement increases gradually. Public-private partnerships expand in key sectors. Investment opportunities attract international capital.

Local businesses drive economic growth. Entrepreneurship programs create employment opportunities. However, enabling environments need improvement.

Looking Forward

Promising Trends

Technology adoption accelerates development progress. Digital solutions enable innovative approaches. Young population provides demographic dividends.

International support remains committed. New financing mechanisms emerge. Debt relief opens additional resources.

Key Priorities for 2025-2030

Peace and security remain fundamental prerequisites. Institutional capacity building requires sustained attention. Climate resilience needs urgent action.

Economic diversification offers growth opportunities. Infrastructure development enables further progress. Education and healthcare systems need strengthening.

Innovative Approaches

Digital transformation offers leapfrogging opportunities. Renewable energy systems provide sustainable solutions. Community-based models ensure local ownership.

South-south cooperation expands knowledge sharing. Regional integration creates larger markets. Circular economy approaches improve resource efficiency.

Realistic Expectations

Achieving all SDGs by 2030 remains extremely challenging. However, significant progress is possible in key areas. Sustained commitment from all stakeholders is essential.

Gradualism and pragmatism guide implementation strategies. Quick wins build momentum for longer-term goals. Adaptive management responds to changing circumstances.

Vision for 2030

Somalia envisions becoming a stable, prosperous nation. Middle-income status represents an ambitious goal. Inclusive development benefits all citizens.

Regional integration strengthens economic prospects. Environmental sustainability protects future generations. Democratic governance ensures accountable leadership.

The journey toward sustainable development continues. Each step forward matters for future generations. Success requires unwavering commitment and international solidarity.