NEA Holds Successful Two-Day Consultation Workshop on Electricity Service Providers Licensing Framework

Mogadishu, Somalia – July 2 & 3, 2024 – The National Electricity Authority (NEA), as part of its mandate, has successfully conducted a two-day consultation workshop on the newly developed Electricity Service Providers (ESPs) Licensing Framework. This framework is designed to standardize operations, enhance service delivery, ensure compliance with safety and environmental standards, and promote a competitive market environment that attracts both local and international investments.

The workshop, held in Mogadishu, aimed at informing, consulting, and collaborating with key stakeholders, particularly the private sector ESPs from Mogadishu and the Federal Member States (FMSs). The event was officially opened by the State Minister of the Ministry of Energy and Water Resources of the Federal Government of Somalia, H.E. Mohamed Abdullahi Farah, who emphasized the significance of the framework in advancing Somalia’s electricity sector.

H.E. Mohamed Abdullahi Farah stated, “This framework is a pivotal step towards achieving a sustainable and efficient electricity sector in Somalia. It sets the foundation for improved service delivery and investment opportunities, ensuring that all stakeholders benefit from a standardized and regulated market.”

The Director General of the NEA H.E Abdullahi Ahmed Dayib along with the Deputy Director General Mr. Mohamed Amiin warmly welcomed the participants and highlighted the importance of the consultation. “Our goal is to create an inclusive and transparent licensing framework that addresses the needs and concerns of all stakeholders. This workshop is an essential part of our commitment to stakeholder engagement and collaboration,” said the Director General.

Objectives of the Consultation Workshop

The primary objectives of the stakeholder engagement were:

1. Introduction and Awareness: Providing a comprehensive overview of the ESPs Licensing Framework, clarifying its purpose, scope, and benefits for the electricity sector in Somalia.
2. Stakeholder Consultation: Gathering feedback, insights, and concerns from ESPs and other key stakeholders, discussing practical implications and addressing challenges.
3. Implementation Strategy: Outlining the steps for the implementation of the licensing framework, providing a clear timeline, and compliance requirements for ESPs.
4. Capacity Building: Identifying support and capacity-building needs for stakeholders to ensure compliance and offering guidance on available resources and assistance from the NEA.
5. Collaboration and Partnership: Fostering a collaborative environment to discuss potential partnerships and synergies, establishing a continuous feedback loop between the NEA and ESPs.

Stakeholders/Participants

The engagement brought together a diverse group of stakeholders, including:

• Private sector Electricity Service Providers (ESPs) from Mogadishu and the FMSs
• Representatives from the Ministry of Energy and Water Resources
• Investors and financial institutions involved in the energy sector
• Development partners and donor agencies
• Technical experts and consultants
• Civil society organizations with an interest in energy sector reforms

Expected Outcomes

• Enhanced understanding of the ESPs Licensing Framework among all stakeholders.
• Constructive feedback and suggestions from ESPs to refine and improve the framework.
• A clear and actionable roadmap for the implementation of the licensing framework.
• Identification of specific capacity-building needs and available resources to support stakeholders.
• Strengthened collaboration and partnership between the NEA and private sector stakeholders.

The two-day consultation workshop concluded with a mutual agreement on the implementation of the licensing framework, marking a significant milestone in the advancement of Somalia’s electricity sector. The NEA remains committed to maintaining an open dialogue and collaboration with all stakeholders to ensure the successful implementation of the framework.