Transforming Waste Management in Somaliland

With only 65% of waste in Hargeisa collected due to limited capacity and inefficient equipment, in 2014, KEEPS received a $60,000 loan facilitated by Shuraako and funded by the Arsenault Family Foundation to acquire modern waste handling equipment. This investment enabled KEEPS to expand its municipal solid waste services by procuring a tractor, two Urban Sanitation Vehicles, and other essential equipment, significantly improving its operations. 

The success of this initial investment paved the way for further growth. After successfully repaying its first loan, KEEPS secured a $200,000 loan in 2019 from the Nordic Horn of Africa Opportunities Fund to expand its construction services. The financing allowed KEEPS to deploy two additional fleets of heavy machinery, including a Shovel Wheel Loader and additional vehicles. This expansion enhanced its garbage collection, water development, and infrastructure services, such as road construction and rural rehabilitation projects.

Expanding Services

With these investments, KEEPS has been able to deploy two additional fleets of heavy machinery. This expansion has dramatically increased the company's capacity for garbage collection, water development, and disposal services.

Impact at a Glance

•    Improved Sanitation: KEEPS collected 43,000 tons of waste in 2023 alone, contributing to a cleaner environment.
•    Job Creation: The workforce grew from 20 employees in 2012 to 205 in 2024—a 925% increase—with over half the permanent roles held by women.
•    Fleet Expansion: The company’s fleet grew from three vehicles to 22, improving service delivery.
•    Market Growth: Expanded services and new market entries have increased KEEPS’ sales and reach, including underserved districts like Ibrahim Koodbuur.
•    Environmental Protection: Rural rehabilitation efforts addressed challenges like soil erosion, fostering sustainable development.

KEEPS's story is a testament to the potential for innovative, locally-driven solutions to address critical challenges in Somaliland and Somalia.

The Broader Context: Sanitation in Somaliland

While KEEPS has made significant strides, the sanitation landscape in Somaliland remains challenging but there’s also a lot of room for growth. Some facts about the industry include:

•    Limited infrastructure: Many areas still lack proper waste management facilities and systems.
•    Growing urban populations: Rapid urbanization is putting increased pressure on existing sanitation services.
•    Environmental concerns: Improper waste disposal poses significant risks to both human health and the environment.
•    Economic opportunities: The sanitation sector represents a potential source of employment and economic growth.

Building Skills and Capacity
Through partnerships with Shuraako and organizations like DANIDA, KEEPS employees have benefited from training and capacity-building programs. These initiatives have enhanced operational efficiency and introduced staff to financial literacy and networking opportunities, strengthening the company’s foundation for long-term success.

As companies like KEEPS continue to innovate and expand, there is hope for significant improvements in sanitation across the region. Their contributions to sanitation, job creation, and environmental sustainability in Somaliland are paving the way for continued growth and community impact. Their success demonstrates the vital role that private enterprises can play in addressing public health challenges and fostering sustainable development.