New strategy for development cooperation with Somalia
PublishedApril 7, 2026
The government has decided on a new strategy for Sweden’s development cooperation with Somalia. The strategy applies to the period 2026–2028 and comprises a total of SEK 630 million. Strengthened institutions, resilience to crises and disasters, and better livelihood opportunities through job creation and entrepreneurship are in focus.
Sweden has long had a broad partnership with Somalia, with close cooperation in several areas. The new strategy also strengthens the conditions for exploiting synergies between, among other things, aid and migration policy.
– Sweden wants to support Somalia’s long-term development. With this strategy, we are setting out the direction for our support. It is about contributing to state-building, democratic development and economic growth through job creation, entrepreneurship and trade. This is necessary for a country’s increased prosperity. The strategy also includes a new migration goal, which is important for Sweden, says Minister for Development Cooperation and Foreign Trade Benjamin Dousa.
– By strengthening institutions, creating jobs and building resilience, we are laying the foundation for people in Somalia to be able to take control of their own lives, lift themselves out of poverty and find a way away from war, conflict and extremism. The cooperation needs to be characterised by clear responsibility from both parties, where migration issues are also handled in a constructive way, says Magnus Berntsson (KD), foreign policy spokesperson.
– Somalia faces major challenges and it is important that Sweden continues to contribute. Focus on economic growth, entrepreneurship and democratic development is crucial for the country to be able to stand stronger on its own feet, says Fredrik Malm (L), foreign policy spokesperson.
The strategy is based on the government’s reform agenda for Swedish development assistance: Development assistance for a new era – Freedom, empowerment and sustainable growth. The strategy also follows the format of the government’s reformed strategic management with fewer and more focused objectives. Sida and the Folke Bernadotte Academy are tasked with implementing the strategy.
About the strategy
The strategy for Sweden’s development cooperation with Somalia will contribute to the following goals:
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Strengthened institutions that promote state-building, democratic development and the principles of the rule of law,
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Increased respect for human rights and freedoms,
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Strengthened resilience and improved adaptive capacity to crises, disasters and climate change,
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Increased capacity to counter irregular migration and improved conditions for increased returns and sustainable reintegration,
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Increased enjoyment of sexual and reproductive health and rights,
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Improved livelihood opportunities through job creation, entrepreneurship, trade and education.