Somaliland Power Plugs, Wall Sockets & Electrical Outlets
In Somaliland, power plugs and sockets (electrical outlets) of Type G (BS 1363, three rectangular pins in triangular pattern, grounded) are used. Wall sockets run at 220V and 50Hz. Check if you need a travel adapter, electrical adapter or voltage converter before travelling to Somaliland.
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Do You Need a Travel Adaptor for Somaliland?
If you're traveling from a country that doesn't use the British three-pin standard, you will need a travel adaptor for Somaliland. The Somaliland power plug is the Type G, identical to the plug used in the United Kingdom, so any device with a different plug top will require an adaptor to fit the local wall socket. Travelers arriving from North America, mainland Europe, or most of Asia should pack a Type G adaptor before departure, since these are not always easy to find locally.
Is a Voltage Converter Necessary?
Somaliland operates on a 220V supply, which is standard across most of the world outside North America and parts of Central America and Japan. If your devices are dual-voltage, such as most modern phone chargers, laptop chargers, and camera battery chargers, a voltage converter is not necessary. However, single-voltage appliances designed only for 110-120V systems will require a converter to avoid damage, since plugging them directly into a 220V outlet can cause overheating or failure.
Voltage and Frequency in Somaliland
Somaliland's electrical supply runs at 220V and 50Hz, matching the standard used throughout the UK, Europe, and much of Africa. This means travelers from those regions can use their electronics without any voltage conversion, needing only a plug adaptor if their home plug shape differs. Those from 110-120V countries should check each device individually, as many electronics now support a wide voltage range.
Understanding Somaliland's Power Plugs and Sockets
Somaliland uses the Type G plug and socket system for its AC power plugs and sockets, following the BS 1363 standard inherited from British electrical conventions. This plug features three rectangular pins arranged in a triangular pattern, with a longer earth pin above two shorter live and neutral pins. The design includes an internal cartridge fuse and shuttered sockets, offering strong protection against electrical faults and accidental contact.
- Three rectangular pins in a triangular configuration
- Live and neutral pins measuring 6.35 x 3.18mm
- Earth pin measuring 3.18 x 7.92mm, longer for safety engagement
- Rated for 13A at 220-240V
- Built-in fuse (commonly 3A or 13A) for individual appliance protection
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, unless your home country already uses Type G plugs. Somaliland relies on the British BS 1363 standard, so devices with different plug shapes will need an adaptor to connect to local sockets.
Most modern phone chargers are dual-voltage and can handle Somaliland's 220V, 50Hz supply without a converter. You'll just need a Type G adaptor to physically fit the plug into the local wall socket.
Yes, Somaliland's Type G sockets are grounded, with the earth pin being longer so it connects before the live and neutral pins. This design also opens the socket's protective shutters for added safety.
Pack a Type G travel adaptor to match Somaliland's plug standard, along with a voltage converter only if you're bringing single-voltage 110-120V appliances. Most laptop and phone chargers are dual-voltage and won't need conversion.
