Somali Charcoal Exportation

The deforestation in the Horn of Africa is increasing an alarming rate. Somalis used/use charcoal for cooking. Since the government of Somalia collapsed in 1991, the deforestation increased more than five fold. The reason of this increase is the demand (charcoal) from the Arab Countries, particularly the oil rich Gulf Countries.

These countries ignore international environmental laws and continue to buy the charcoal from all territories Somali inhabitants. This is the worse environmental disaster that Somalis ever faced and it will make their country “desert” and barren land. The Somali Enviromental Protection Alliance (SEPA) is taking a strong position to defend the enviroment and the livehood of the Somali people.

In the year 2000, total charcoal production was estimated to be 112,000 metric tons. In 2005, the charcoal production (estimate) increase to 150,000 metric tons. Approximately 80% of this charcoal is destined for stoves in the Gulf States, while only 20% is for domestic consumption.