MOGADISHU – The Somali Ministry of Environment and Climate Change convened an expanded coordination meeting aimed at invigorating the green industries sector. H.E. Ahmed Omar Mahamed, Minister of State for Environment and Climate Change, joined by a team of experts and technical advisors, engaged with entrepreneurs and representatives of national companies specializing in eco-friendly bag production.

As noted on official sources, the meeting centered on exploring strategies to enhance the development and production efficiency of eco-friendly alternatives, addressing current logistical and technical obstacles, and evaluating the significant role of the private sector and local manufacturers in safeguarding various ecosystems.

The gathering aimed to formulate a comprehensive national strategy to eliminate complete dependence on conventional plastic bags, which present an urgent threat to public health, along with their direct impact on biodiversity and agricultural and pastoral lands throughout Somalia’s federal regions.

Ministry officials and specialists held thorough discussions with leaders and representatives from participating industrial companies to evaluate the current production capabilities of local manufacturers and assess initiatives for sustainable alternatives.

During the environmental conference, participants reached agreement on an innovative marketing and cultural initiative by formally adopting the term “KIISh” for eco-friendly bags in both official and everyday language, working to create a consistent visual and commercial identity for this sustainable product in national markets.

As explained in official updates, this creative linguistic approach seeks to raise public awareness, promote the availability of safe alternatives to consumers, and motivate citizens to voluntarily reduce their use of common harmful plastics.

At the close of the meeting, the Ministry reaffirmed its dedication to providing technical resources and addressing challenges hindering green investments, recognizing that the collaborative partnership between governmental and private sectors is fundamental to the success of national initiatives focused on preserving natural environments and shielding Somalia’s resources from pollution.

Somalia’s progress toward banning plastics and establishing the national trademark “KIISh” marks a significant strategic evolution in environmental policy, as the nation aims through this measure to reduce the substantial environmental burden of plastic waste on its pastoral and agricultural sectors. Engaging local manufacturers in production helps convert an environmental challenge into an economic advantage that creates new employment opportunities and strengthens domestic industry. Additionally, this endeavor demonstrates the government’s sophisticated understanding of the necessity of collaboration with private enterprises to ensure the effectiveness of long-term sustainability policies and comprehensive climate change strategies.