Somalia
Switzerland has been engaged in Somalia and the Horn of Africa since the 1990s. Building on its long-standing presence and partnerships, Switzerland supports peacebuilding, humanitarian assistance, and long-term development with a strong focus on inclusion and local ownership. The Swiss Cooperation Programme 2026–29 covers Somalia, including Somaliland, and the adjacent arid and semi-arid lands (ASAL) of Northeastern Kenya and Southeastern Ethiopia.
Context in Somalia
Somalia remains one of the world’s most fragile contexts. Decades of conflict, institutional weakness and political fragmentation continue to affect livelihoods, drive displacement, and limit access to basic services. Climate change further aggravates these challenges, as recurrent droughts and floods hit a country where many people depend on agriculture and livestock. At the same time, Somalia has made progress in rebuilding national and local institutions and re-engaging internationally. A vibrant private sector and engaged diaspora are investing in people and infrastructure, while hope lies with the youth in a country where nearly three-quarters of the population is under 30.
Peace and Governance
Switzerland promotes peaceful coexistence as a precondition for inclusive, accountable and affordable governance and state building. It strengthens communities’ capacity to engage in dialogue, participate in decision-making and hold authorities accountable, while supporting institutions to deliver equitable services within conducive national and subnational frameworks. Interventions place strong emphasis on local actors’ ownership and leadership, combining support for local dialogue for peacebuilding, the protection of civic space and evidence-based policy engagement.
Human Development
Humanitarian needs in Somalia remain high due to conflict, recurrent climatic shocks and prolonged displacement. Switzerland combines humanitarian aid, development cooperation and policy dialogue to strengthen resilient, locally led service delivery systems while retaining the capacity to respond rapidly to new crises. Its engagement focuses on access to health and water services, as well as durable solutions for displacement-affected communities. By strengthening local capacities and supporting more sustainable systems, Switzerland aims to reduce dependency on aid over time. The programme also strenghtens migration management that promotes safe and regular migration.
Climate Resilient Economic Development
Somalia’s economy depends heavily on climate-sensitive sectors such as agriculture and livestock. Fragmented markets, limited access to finance and weak value chains constrain inclusive growth. Switzerland supports households and enterprises to adopt climate-smart production practices, diversify incomes, access clean energy and benefit from sustainable finance. Using a market-systems approach, it strengthens key economic sectors, particularly agriculture and livestock, supports small businesses and promotes the economic participation of women and youth. Switzerland also contributes to policy and institutional reforms that foster fair competition, transparency, equitable access to resources, stronger cross-border markets and regional economic integration.
Gender equality, good governance and climate change are integrated across Switzerland’s entire programme. Switzerland places particular emphasis on strengthening the role of women and young people in decision-making and economic life. It promotes their participation as entrepreneurs and active contributors in key value chains and local markets. Good governance is systematically addressed to foster transparent, accountable, and inclusive institutions and processes. Wherever relevant, Swiss-supported interventions include measures to adapt to and mitigate climate change while avoiding negative environmental impacts.
Approach and Key Partners
Switzerland implements its programme in Somalia, including Somaliland, as well as in adjacent arid and semi-arid lands in Northeastern Kenya and Southeastern Ethiopia. The programme focuses on three cross-border trade and migration corridors linking rural productive areas with urban centres. Switzerland applies a flexible, conflict-sensitive approach. It works through a balanced mix of partnerships, increasingly involving local organisations and the private sector, while continuing cooperation with multilateral actors. Key partners include NGOs, United Nations organisations, private sector actors, Swiss non-profit organisations, academic and research institutions, and state institutions.
Switzerland’s main partners in the Horn of Africa are:
- Swiss non-governmental organisations (NGOs) and institutions;
- National and regional institutions;
- Ministries, provincial, district and local-level administrations, IGAD and local development funds;
- International and local NGOs and organisations;
- Multilateral partners: the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC), the World Food Programme (WFP), the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (UNOCHA), the Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO), the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and the World Health Organisation (WHO);
- Local private sector;
- Other donor countries.
Contact
Eichenweg 5
3003 Bern