Mogadishu Watt

Are you a young Somali innovator between the ages of 18-35? Do you have an idea to improve the access to clean, sustainable and affordable energy to residents of Mogadishu?

An estimated 9 million Somalis survive every day without access to electricity; approximately 85% of the population. Somalia has one of the world’s highest electricity prices

Electricity is largely produced by diesel generators and some renewable energy

Cost: $1/KW

Access: Urban 15% Rural: 4%

iRise Hub, in partnership with the World Bank, have launched an open innovation challenge to find ideas that can improve access to clean and affordable energy in Somalia.

Focus Areas – The Mogadishu Watt Innovation Challenge aims to unearth and support energy innovators across Somalia who may have solutions that:

Deliver affordable, reliable and sustainable energy through new sources
Use innovative business models to improve access to clean energy
Use creative financing models to increase access to clean energy
Reduce energy wastage across the value chain
Save cost for producers, distributors or consumers of energy

Smart Energy refers to the intelligent integration of renewable energy sources, efficient distribution and optimal consumption. We believe bringing together talent from inside and outside the energy industry, coders, and finance gurus will get us one step closer to a smarter, cleaner energy future in Somalia

We’ve got real challenges for you to hack, bottomless drinks and buffet line and mentors to keep your wheels spinning. Bring yourself, your team and the best ideas

Who can attend

Coders develop software, but successful teams need more than that. We are looking for a mix of software developers, energy experts, data analysis experts, product developers and designers, and finance or project management ninjas.

You can apply as a team or as an individual. We recommend teams of 4-5 with each member bringing different skills to the table. If you are unable to find a team, don’t worry, we have two information sessions before the hackathon to find your partner or teammates.

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Mogadishu Watt Information Session 1