Somalia’s Ministry of Health has launched a significant tender to install off-grid solar-plus-storage systems at 22 healthcare facilities, with the project funded by the World Bank under the Damu Iyo Caafimaad Wanaagsan (DaCaWa) Project. This crucial initiative aims to revolutionize healthcare services by providing reliable and sustainable energy solutions to remote areas across the country, ensuring that life-saving medical care is never interrupted by a power outage.
Project Overview of the Somalia off-grid solar tender
The tender requires bidders to design, supply, install, and maintain comprehensive off-grid solar systems at selected healthcare units in the country’s North Eastern State. The goal is to improve healthcare services by ensuring a stable, 24/7 power supply, which is critical for operating essential medical equipment, refrigerating vaccines, and maintaining modern healthcare infrastructure. The inclusion of battery storage is key, allowing facilities to store solar energy generated during the day for use at night or during overcast periods. Understanding the basics of solar panel manufacturing is fundamental to appreciating the technology being deployed.
The Ministry of Health Development (MOHD) is overseeing the project, with 100% of the funding provided by the World Bank’s International Development Association (IDA). This commitment reflects the World Bank’s dedication to enhancing both healthcare and energy infrastructure in developing nations like Somalia.
Eligibility and Bidding Process for the Somalia off-grid solar tender
The Ministry has outlined specific eligibility criteria to attract experienced and capable bidders. Interested parties must demonstrate a minimum of five years of experience in installing off-grid solar systems, with at least three similar projects successfully completed in the last three years. Additionally, bidders must show an average annual turnover of USD 200,000 from off-grid solar projects over the past three years. This ensures that bidders have a proven track record in the entire solar panel manufacturing process, from sourcing to final installation.
Financial stability is also a key requirement, with bidders needing to provide audited financial statements for the last three years. The bid process will be conducted through International Competitive Bidding (ICB) procedures, ensuring transparency and fostering participation from a diverse pool of qualified suppliers.
Bidders must submit their proposals by 11:00 a.m. on January 15, 2026. Submissions can be made electronically via email to [email protected] or physically delivered to the Ministry’s office in Mogadishu, Somalia. Late submissions will not be considered, and all bids must be valid for 120 days from the bid opening date, which is scheduled for 11:30 a.m. on January 15, 2026.
Impact on Healthcare and Energy Access from the Somalia off-grid solar tender
This initiative is a cornerstone of Somalia’s broader efforts to improve healthcare infrastructure and expand energy access in underserved regions. By integrating off-grid solar systems, the country can provide a reliable and sustainable energy source for healthcare facilities where connection to the national grid is either non-existent or unreliable.
The project is expected to have a profound impact on healthcare delivery. It will ensure that operating theaters, diagnostic labs, and maternal wards can function without interruption. A stable power supply also guarantees the cold chain for vaccines and medicines, a critical factor in public health. Furthermore, the use of solar energy will drastically reduce reliance on noisy, polluting, and expensive diesel generators, thereby lowering operational costs and contributing to environmental sustainability. The quality of these systems begins with the very solar panel raw materials used in their construction.
Future Prospects of the Somalia off-grid solar tender
This tender is part of a growing trend in Somalia and across Africa to embrace renewable energy solutions for critical national development sectors. As detailed in the Global Solar Report, harnessing abundant solar resources is a key strategy for driving economic growth and improving public services. With the support of international partners like the World Bank, Somalia is positioning itself as a leader in this transition.
The successful implementation of this project will likely encourage further investments in renewable energy across the country, creating a replicable model for electrifying other essential services like schools and water purification centers. It will also foster local expertise in solar technology, from the complex solar panel manufacturing machines to the final on-site maintenance. This aligns with global efforts to promote sustainable development and reduce carbon emissions, contributing to the fight against climate change.
The tender for these 22 healthcare facilities represents a significant step forward for Somalia. By linking renewable energy with healthcare development, the country is building a more sustainable and resilient future. As the bidding process unfolds, stakeholders will be watching closely to see how this initiative transforms lives by improving healthcare delivery and energy access in Somalia.
If you are interested in learning more about the intricacies of solar energy production, from factory setup to final product, explore our free e-course to deepen your knowledge.
