Mogadishu, Somalia | 20 January 2026

The Federal Republic of Somalia has formally enacted the Environmental Protection and Management Act (Law No. 22), a landmark piece of legislation designed to protect the country’s natural resources, regulate environmentally harmful activities, and operationalize citizens’ constitutional right to a clean and healthy environment.
The law was approved by presidential decree on 13 February 2024 by H.E. President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, following its passage by both chambers of the Federal Parliament. Proposed by the Ministry of Environment and Climate Change, the Act establishes Somalia’s first comprehensive national framework for environmental protection and management in decades.
The Environmental Protection and Management Act consist of 18 chapters and 102 articles, covering pollution control, waste management, environmental impact assessments (EIAs), hazardous substances, wildlife protection, marine and coastal conservation, and public access to environmental information. It also introduces internationally recognized principles such as sustainable development, the precautionary principle, and the polluter-pays principle.
Key provisions require environmentally impactful projects to obtain permits and conduct EIAs, ban plastic bags, criminalize illegal deforestation and charcoal production, regulate hazardous materials, and protect wildlife and marine ecosystems. The law further mandates annual environmental reporting to Parliament and strengthens the role of federal and state institutions in environmental governance.
In a legal commentary released by Independence House, the Act is described as a historic and necessary foundation for environmental governance in Somalia. However, the analysis also highlights critical areas requiring further action, including the need for clearer institutional mandates, detailed implementing regulations, and well-defined standards to ensure consistent enforcement and avoid unintended economic or administrative burdens.
“The passage of this law is a major milestone for Somalia,” said Hassan Mahmoud Mohamed, Executive Director of Independence House and author of the commentary. “Its success will depend on how effectively it is implemented through strong institutions, clear regulations, and public awareness of environmental rights and responsibilities.”
The commentary recommends the rapid development of subsidiary legislation, clarification of the role of the National Environmental Committee, harmonization of legal drafting, and enhanced public access to environmental justice.
The enactment of the Environmental Protection and Management Act marks a decisive step toward sustainable development, environmental accountability, and resilience in Somalia, signaling renewed national commitment to protecting the environment for present and future generations.

Read the full commentary here: Faalo Sharciga Ilaalinta iyo Maareynta Deegaanka Soomaaliya