From Pollution to Prosperity: ICE Institute Leads Dialogue on Circularity During EU Green Week 2025
Mogadishu, 5th June 2025 — The ICE Institute joined EUCAP Somalia, the EU Delegation, and EUTM-S to mark EU Green Week 2025 with a dynamic high-level seminar focused on circular economy principles. Held in Mogadishu under the theme “Reuse, Repair, Recycle for a Better Life”, the event convened key Somali and European stakeholders committed to shaping a greener, more sustainable future.
Sharing the Somali Perspective on Circularity
Our director Mohamed Okash delivered a keynote presentation titled “From Pollution to Prosperity”, offering a thought-provoking exploration of the potential for circular economy strategies in Somalia. His presentation outlined the need to shift from a linear “take-make-dispose” model to a regenerative system where materials are reused, repaired, and recycled to preserve resources and create local value.
“Circularity is not just an environmental solution; it’s a social and economic opportunity for fragile states like Somalia. It’s about creating green jobs, reducing dependency on imports, and restoring the dignity of our environment and people,” – Mohamed Okash
The presentation featured both global insights and local examples, highlighting innovative Somali initiatives all demonstrating the potential of circular models to drive inclusive green growth in fragile contexts.
High-Level Dialogue and Collaboration
The seminar brought together a remarkable and diverse group of speakers and stakeholders. Among them were H.E. Karin Johansson, Head of the EU Delegation to Somalia; environmental advisers from EUCAP Somalia; senior representatives from the Ministry of Environment and Climate Change (MoECC); and leaders from Somali civil society organizations working tirelessly at the grassroots level.
Their discussions highlighted a shared understanding: meaningful progress on environmental challenges requires strong collaboration between policy, practice, and people. Speakers called for circular economy principles to be more deeply integrated into Somalia’s national strategies, educational systems, and local community initiatives.
Despite the country’s complex challenges, the panel agreed that Somalia holds immense, untapped potential to lead in circular innovation. This includes scaling up small enterprises that turn waste into value, supporting local recyclers and repairers, and creating inclusive green jobs for youth and women.
Looking Ahead
ICE Institute’s participation in EU Green Week 2025 reaffirmed its role as a leading voice for climate resilience, sustainability education, and green innovation in Somalia. The event served as a catalyst for continued dialogue, partnership-building, and action-oriented research to advance the country’s transition toward a circular and climate-resilient economy.
We extend our gratitude to the EU Delegation, EUCAP Somalia, and all partners who made this dialogue possible. As we move forward, the ICE Institute remains committed to promoting locally grounded, globally aligned solutions to the climate and environmental challenges facing Somalia and the wider region.
