Promoting circularity in the Somali context

Hosted in Mogadishu, the event brought together Mission members, Somali officials, civil society representatives, and environmental practitioners. The activities were designed to raise awareness of the growing issue of plastic waste and to promote local dialogue on how circular economy principles—reusing, repairing, and recycling—can help build a cleaner, more sustainable future for Somalia.

Collective action for a cleaner Coast

A beach clean-up took place in Mogadishu, bringing together the EU family and civil society organizations for a hands-on contribution to environmental protection. Participants collected waste from the shoreline, reinforcing the importance of individual and collective responsibility in tackling pollution. 

Expert dialogue and community creativity

A seminar on circular economy practices in Somalia was held, with contributions from the Ministry of Environment and Climate Change, the Ministry of Fisheries and Blue Economy, and the Institute for Climate and Environment at SIMAD University in Mogadishu. The panel discussed how local, national, and international actors can work together to improve waste management, reduce reliance on imported materials, and generate innovation in recycling and reuse.

Alongside the seminar, two local companies showcased their circular products; purified water in reusable containers, and cooking briquettes made of scrap cardboard. Their work offered a powerful example of how circularity not only benefits the environment but can also support livelihoods and local economies. 

Participants also contributed to a donation drive, providing clothes and household items, handed over to UNHCR Somalia in support of displaced families and communities in need.

The event concluded with a Circularity Quiz, inviting staff across EUCAP Somalia and EUTM-S to engage with the ideas of circularity and environmental sustainability. 

This collaborative initiative reflected the two Missions’ ongoing commitment to promoting sustainability in Somalia. By encouraging dialogue and action on circularity, the event has laid the groundwork for future engagement and concrete steps toward environmental resilience in the region.