About Us
About Us
History & Background
The Somali Development and Reconstruction Bank (SDRB) is Somalia’s national Development Bank (DFI), mandated
to drive economic recovery and sustainable development. SDRB plays a pivotal role in fostering private sector
growth by providing catalytic financing solutions that unlock investment, strengthen key industries, and promote
financial access and inclusion.
Established in 1968, SDRB was originally created to provide medium- and long-term financing for private enterprises.
After decades of disruption, the Bank has been revitalized with a renewed focus on financing high-impact projects
that align with Somalia’s National Transformation Plan. SDRB supports businesses and infrastructure projects that
generate employment, enhance productivity, and contribute to long-term economic stability.
Why Now? Somalia’s Path to Transformation
Somalia is undergoing a period of remarkable transformation. With notable progress across political, security, economic,
and financial sectors, the country is poised for sustained growth and development:
POLITICAL AND SECURITY DEVELOPMENTS
Stable Governance: Somalia has made strides in institutional development and political stability, marked by peaceful
leadership transitions and strengthened democratic processes. These efforts have laid the foundation for inclusive
governance and long-term resilience.
Enhanced Security: Through collaboration with local and international partners, Somalia has reclaimed over 70 villages and
districts from Al-Shabaab. This has led to significant improvements in national security and stability.
ECONOMIC PROGRESS
Debt Reduction: Somalia has made remarkable strides in its financial recovery. The debt-to-GDP ratio has dropped
dramatically from 65% to under 10%, signaling a strong path toward fiscal sustainability.
Regional Integration: With its accession to the East African Community (EAC), Somalia now has access to a market of 284
million people, creating new opportunities for trade and economic collaboration across the region.
ADVANCEMENTS IN THE FINANCIAL SECTOR
Expanding Banking Services: The Central Bank of Somalia has introduced new regulations, granting licenses to 11 local
banks, including several foreign institutions, expanding access to banking services.
Modern Payment Infrastructure: In 2021, Somalia launched a national payment system, enhancing financial inclusion and
providing secure, e{ficient transaction channels across the country.
IMPROVING THE BUSINESS ENVIRONMENT
Regulatory Reforms: Key legislative reforms, including the Company Act and the Business Licensing Law, have strengthened
Somalia’s business environment. Additionally, enhanced Anti-Money Laundering (AML) and Counter-Terrorism Financing (CFT)
frameworks are promoting transparency and compliance.
Infrastructure Investment: Ongoing investments in infrastructure, particularly in regulating government lands and real estate,
are laying the foundation for sustainable growth and development.
Who We Are
Empowering Somalia’s Economic Growth
Facilitate sustainable economic growth in Somalia by providing innovative financing solutions, fostering private sector development, and supporting critical infrastructure projects in line with national development priorities.
Vision
Shaping a prosperous Somalia
Shape a prosperous Somalia by being the driving force behind transformative
investments that rebuild the economy, enhance financial inclusion, and promote
sustainable development
Core Values
Impact-Driven Investment
We prioritize investments that create long-term economic and social value.
Innovation & Sustainability
We embrace forward-thinking financial solutions that ensure sustainable growth.
Financial Inclusion
We work to expand access to capital and opportunities for underserved communities.
Integrity & Transparency
We uphold the highest standards of governance, ethics, and accountability.
Partnership & Collaboration
We engage with stakeholders across sectors to drive national development.
Strategic
Pillars
Investing in Development & Growth
Deploying capital to high-impact sectors that drive economic transformation.
Expanding Somalia’s Financial Ecosystem
Strengthening financial inclusion and diversifying financial instruments, including Islamic finance.
Catalyzing Growth in Underserved Markets
Supporting SMEs, agriculture, fisheries, renewable energy, and infrastructure projects.
Serving as a Development & Growth Advisor
Acting as a trusted partner for policymakers and investors to drive strategic investments.
What We Do
The Somali Development and Reconstruction
Bank (SDRB) plays a pivotal role in fostering
Somalia’s economic recovery and
development. With a clear mandate to support
the nation’s journey towards prosperity, we
focus on several key areas:
Catalyzing Investment:
We aim to unlock Somalia’s immense potential by facilitating
investments that drive sustainable growth. Our focus on catalytic
financing helps develop underserved sectors crucial for the country’s
economic advancement.
Empowering SMEs:
Understanding the critical role of small and medium enterprises in economic
development, we provide targeted financial products and advisory services to
enable SMEs to thrive. We prioritize increasing their access to finance, which is
instrumental in transforming their innovative ideas into successful businesses.
Innovating Financial Solutions:
At SDRB, innovation is at the core of what we do. We develop and implement
diverse financial instruments tailored to the unique needs of the Somali
market. These include Sharia-compliant products, which are essential for
inclusive finance.
Sectoral Development:
We strategically prioritize sectors that promise high growth and development
returns. Key focus areas include fisheries, agriculture, livestock, renewable
energy, infrastructureand financial services. By investing in these sectors, we
aim to create jobs, enhance livelihoods, and foster broad-based economic
development.
Building Capacities:
Beyond financial support, we are commi}ted to building the capacities of our
clients and the financial ecosystem. Through training and capacity-building
programs, we ensure that stakeholders are well-equipped to contribute to
Somalia’s economic development.
Solutions
SDRB’s Market-Driven Strategy: Prioritize
investments in sectors with proven demand,
while also nurturing growth where demand
needs to emerge. This dual approach drives
economic growth but also addresses critical
social needs, creating jobs, enhancing
livelihoods, and fostering inclusive
development across Somalia.
Business Advisory & Investment Readiness
Empowering Somali SMEs with financial solutions, digital transformation, and
capacity building for long-term growth. We drive digital transformation by
providing e-commerce tools, tech adoption, and innovation support for
improved competitiveness.
Sector-Specific Financing
Sharia-compliant financing for key sectors, including agriculture, fisheries,
infrastructure, and renewable energy fueling Somalia’s economic future. By
o{fering flexible funding and credit guarantee to credit schemes, SDRB reduces
lending risks, promoting financial inclusion and sector growth.
Capacity Building & Knowledge Transfer
Strengthening businesses and financial institutions with training, leadership
development, and business development services.
Climate & Green Finance
The Somali Development and Reconstruction Bank (SDRB) is pioneering
Somalia’s entry into climate and green finance, focusing on renewable energy
and climate resilience to reduce reliance on imported fuels, enhance energy
security, and align with global sustainability goals.
Market Expansion & Trade Facilitation
SDRB aims to enhance trade by leveraging Somalia’s EAC membership and
investing infrastructure to boost exports and regional integration. Key sectors
include livestock, agriculture, and fisheries, with a focus on improving trade
logistics and market access.
News
Procurement
Whistle Blower Policy: The Somali Development and Reconstruction Bank operates a strict zero-tolerance policy on corruption, fraud, and
bribery. If you witness any misconduct or non-compliance, report it anonymously via email at: whistleblow@sdrb.gov.so