Turning Clay into Change: How Stove-Making is Powering Livelihoods in Kismayo

In an inspiring initiative under the Promoting Climate-resilient Food Security in Southern Somalia Project (CFSP)—implemented by @GIZ Somalia in collaboration with the Ministry of Environment and Climate Change and funded by @BMZ—15 internally displaced persons (IDPs) from Istanbul, Bulabartire, and Eljale embarked on a journey to transform climate challenges into economic opportunities. This stove production training program aimed to simultaneously promote environmental sustainability and open up viable income streams for vulnerable communities in and around the Luglow IDP camp.

Empowering Through Skills: A 45-Day Journey Participants completed a 45-day training where they learned practical skills in producing energy-efficient stoves—from clay preparation to final product testing.

By the end of the training, the group had successfully manufactured 250 energy-saving cooking stoves, demonstrating both the effectiveness of the training and the participants’ ability to produce high-quality, market-ready products.

Market Linkages and Business Launch To ensure long-term success, the Ministry of Environment facilitated market linkages with local and regional traders. One such link was with Hawo Ali Jama, a prominent trader in Kismayo who previously sourced stoves from Kenya. Impressed by the quality and cost-efficiency of the local products, she purchased 200 units for regional distribution. Another 50 stoves were sold to Seynab Mohamed Kheyre, a trader in the Istanbul market.

With each stove selling for $4.50 USD, the group generated $1,125 USD in revenue, which was deposited into a dedicated group account for transparency and future business development.

Revenue Distribution & Sustainable Planning To support both immediate needs and business continuity, the income was divided as follows:

• 60% ($675 USD) was distributed among the 15 participants, providing each with $45 USD

• 40% ($450 USD) was reinvested into the business for raw materials, tools, and operating costs

This balanced model ensured that the beneficiaries not only benefitted in the short term but also laid the groundwork for a sustainable venture.

Continued Growth and Encouraging Results The group’s momentum did not stop with the first sale. Motivated by their success, they have independently produced an additional 300 stoves. Encouragingly, Ms. Hawo Ali Jama has already pledged to purchase the entire new batch, a strong indication of sustainable market demand and product viability.

Real Voices of Change “This project changed my life. I now have a reliable business that supports my family and contributes to cleaner cooking in my village.” — Abas Jeylani Ibrahim

“Learning how to make these stoves has given me pride and a sense of purpose. We’re not just making stoves; we’re building a healthier future.” — Ahmed Said Nur

A Brighter Future Ahead Once displaced, these 15 individuals are now business owners, community role models and climate champions. Their story reflects the power of skill-building, strong partnerships and market access in driving lasting change.

With demand for clean cooking solutions on the rise in Kismayo and beyond, this group is well on its way to scaling operations, employing others and contributing to a greener, more self-reliant Somalia.