The Southwest Food Museum was established in accordance with the decree No. 120 of the Ministry of Culture of the Southwest State of Somalia on March 15, 2022. Initially named the Southwest State Museum of Food and Agricultural Heritage, the museum underwent a rebranding in 2024 to become the Southwest Food Museum, reflecting its expanded mission to address food security and resilience in the region.

At the time of its establishment, the museum was the first of its kind dedicated to the preservation and promotion of local food systems, agricultural practices, and cultural heritage. The initiative for the museum was led by a coalition of local farmers, cultural advocates, and environmentalists, highlighting the importance of sustainable food practices and community resilience in the face of climate change.

The first permanent exhibition was inaugurated on June 12, 2023, showcasing traditional farming techniques, indigenous crops, and the rich culinary heritage of the Southwest region. The opening ceremony was attended by notable community leaders and representatives from various NGOs who have supported the museum’s mission from its inception.

In its early years, the museum received significant backing from local government officials and international organizations focused on food security. This support facilitated the acquisition of artifacts, traditional tools, and educational materials that enrich the museum’s collections and programs.

In 2025, the Southwest Food Museum relocated to a new, eco-friendly facility in the heart of the city, designed to promote interactive learning and community engagement. This new space includes demonstration gardens, a culinary training center, and areas for workshops and community events, all aimed at fostering a deeper connection between local culture and sustainable food practices.

Over its short history, the museum has been led by a diverse group of directors, each contributing to its growth and outreach. From 2022 to 2024, it was directed by Amina Ibrahim, a prominent agriculturalist and advocate for food sovereignty. Since 2024, the museum has been headed by Dr. Hassan Omar, an expert in sustainable agriculture and community development.

The Southwest Food Museum has become a vital center for education, advocacy, and cultural exchange, organizing numerous events, workshops, and international symposiums on food security and climate resilience. In 2023, the museum hosted the first Regional Food and Resilience Conference, attracting participants from across East Africa to share knowledge and strategies.

The museum collaborates closely with various local and international organizations, including the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), and regional NGOs focused on sustainability and cultural preservation.

In 2024, the museum played a key role in drafting a regional policy on food security, aimed at promoting sustainable agricultural practices and protecting local food systems. This policy, developed in collaboration with community stakeholders, emphasizes the importance of traditional knowledge and ecological practices in combating food insecurity.

Today, the Southwest Food Museum stands as a beacon of hope and resilience, not only preserving the rich agricultural heritage of the Southwest State of Somalia but also actively promoting practices that ensure food security and cultural pride for future generations. Its ongoing programs and initiatives continue to empower local communities, fostering a sustainable and food-secure future.