The charcoal trade in Somalia has been a major driver of environmental degradation, armed conflict, and poverty. Recognizing the severe impact, the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) implemented a ban on Somali charcoal exports in 2012. Despite this, charcoal production continues to devastate Somalia’s environment and destabilize its communities.
The Environmental Crisis
Charcoal production involves the widespread cutting of trees, leading to alarming rates of deforestation and desertification. As forests disappear, soil quality deteriorates, resulting in increased soil erosion. This endangers the livelihoods of rural communities that depend on agriculture and grazing. The loss of vegetation also exacerbates climate change, further threatening the fragile ecosystems of the Horn of Africa.
Conflict and Economic Exploitation
The charcoal trade has fueled instability across Somalia, especially in the southern regions. Armed groups, including terrorist organizations like Al-Shabaab, exploit the trade for financial gain. This illicit economy sustains their operations, perpetuating violence and conflict. Local communities face threats from competing factions, including woodcutters, traders, and armed groups, leading to tensions and displacement.
SEV’s Mission and Achievements
The Somali Environmental Volunteers (SEV) is dedicated to combating the destructive impact of the charcoal trade. Key initiatives include:
- Massive Tree-Planting Campaigns: SEV actively restores degraded lands through large-scale tree planting, creating green spaces and reversing the effects of deforestation.
- Public Awareness Campaigns: Through education and outreach, SEV advocates for the importance of preserving forests and promotes sustainable alternatives to charcoal use.
SEV’s collaborative efforts with courageous stakeholders have yielded significant results. In Puntland and Somaliland, the organization successfully pushed for a total ban on charcoal production and trade—an achievement that underscores the power of collective action.
Focus on Southern Somalia
Despite these successes, the challenge remains critical in Southern Somalia, where charcoal production persists. SEV is intensifying its efforts in this region, addressing the root causes of deforestation and engaging local communities to adopt sustainable practices. With Al-Shabaab controlling large areas and profiting from the trade, SEV’s mission is both an environmental and a security imperative.
Join the Fight to Save Somalia’s Forests
Deforestation threatens not just Somalia’s environment but its future. Together, we can break the cycle of destruction and restore the country’s natural heritage. Support SEV in its mission to save Somalia’s forests—because saving trees means saving lives, livelihoods, and hope for generations to come.