UNLEASH

UNLEASH Talents Innovate Solutions for Climate and Environmental Challenges in Somalia

Author: Juweria Garcade

On August 14th and 15th, the Institute of Climate Change and Environment hosted the first-ever UNLEASH Hack Somalia, sponsored by the United Nations Assistance Mission in Somalia (UNSOM). Bringing together 37 local youth to tackle pressing environmental and climate issues affecting our daily lives in Somalia.

Over two days, participants engaged in the UNLEASH Innovation Methodology. They began by deeply understanding the problems at hand, followed by brainstorming ideas, building prototypes, and envisioning how their projects could be implemented. Witnessing the development of tangible solutions for our environmental challenges was truly inspiring.

The highlight for many was the opportunity to present their projects to a group of experts, including some of the most influential figures in Somalia’s environmental sector as well as officials from the Ministry of Environment and Climate Change of Somalia (MOECC) and the Ministry of Youth and Sports Somalia (MOYS).

Among the several standout projects, there were a few initiatives that stood out for the significant impact they could make on Somalia’s persistent climate and environmental challenges.

  1. a plan to manage flood risks using hydroelectric power,
  2. a method for producing sustainable charcoal briquettes from sawdust and biomass as an eco-friendly alternative to traditional charcoal, and
  3. a strategy for addressing food insecurity by distributing high-quality, drought-resistant seeds.

UNLEASH Hack Somalia was a chance to showcase what youth can do and the tangible products that this program produces for the first time in Somalia and for sustainability. It was a reminder of how much creative power we have right here at home to tackle some of our toughest challenges.

It’s safe to say that everyone left feeling a little more hopeful and a lot more inspired.

We can’t wait to see where these projects go from here!