Livelihood

Empowering communities to build resilience. We diversify income and boost productivity to withstand economic and climate shocks.

Environment

Championing climate-smart solutions. From restoring mangroves to protecting water resources, we safeguard our ecosystems.

Capacity Building

Unlocking potential through training. We equip communities with practical skills in agriculture and fisheries to ensure sustainable growth.

Research

Driving impact through evidence. We translate field data into actionable insights to guide policy and strengthen future programs.

HEFO

About HEFO

Locally led solutions for a resilient Horn

Horn Environmental & Fisheries Organization (HEFO) is a non-governmental, non-profit, and non-political organization established in 2021 by a team of experts from across the Horn of Africa.

HEFO works to promote sustainable development, environmental conservation, and resilient livelihoods across fisheries, agriculture, livestock, and natural resource management.

We empower communities and strengthen institutions through evidence-based programming, innovation, capacity building, and participatory governance. Our work focuses on protecting ecosystems, improving food and livelihood security, strengthening climate resilience, and promoting sustainable use of natural resources.

Through partnerships with communities, governments, researchers, civil society, and the private sector, HEFO develops locally driven and practical solutions that contribute to a more resilient, sustainable, and prosperous Horn of Africa.

Mission

HEFO’s mission is to empower communities, institutions, and private-sector actors across the Horn of Africa to sustainably manage natural resources, strengthen food and nutrition security, protect the environment, build climate resilience, and create inclusive and sustainable livelihood opportunities through evidence-based, locally led, and collaborative solutions.

Vision

HEFO envisions resilient, food-secure, environmentally sustainable, and economically empowered communities, where people have the knowledge, capacities, opportunities, and institutions needed to sustainably manage natural resources, adapt to climate and environmental pressures, and achieve improved livelihoods and well-being.

Our Commitment

By integrating research, capacity building, and participatory governance, HEFO empowers communities and protects natural resources to build a sustainable future for generations to come.

2021

Year Established

5⁺

Active Programmes

4⁺

Countries of Expertise

SDG⁶

Global Goals Aligned

Core Focus Areas

Four Pillars Driving Lasting Impact

Livelihood

Building community capacity to diversify and strengthen livelihoods — enabling households to generate multiple income streams and withstand economic and climate shocks.

Core Goal

Environment

Championing climate-smart solutions — from restoring mangroves and conserving soils to protecting water resources and promoting sustainable fisheries across Somaliland.

Sustainability

Capacity Building

Training is at the heart of HEFO's mission. We equip vulnerable communities with practical, climate-smart skills in agriculture, fisheries, and sustainable resource use.

Empowerment

Research

Generating high-quality, evidence-based research across fisheries, agriculture, and natural resource management — translating field data into policy and stronger programme design.

Evidence

SDG Alignment

No Poverty Zero Hunger Decent Work Life on Land Partnerships Life Below Water

Learn more about us

Discover Who We Are & What Drives Us

Explore HEFO's story, our leadership team, and the values that guide our work across the Horn of Africa's most critical ecosystems and communities.

Who We Are