Somalia is stepping up efforts to revive its maritime sector, with a renewed push for economic growth and job creation.
In a high-level meeting held in Ankara, Somalia’s Minister of Ports and Maritime Transport, Abdulkadir Mohamed Nur, met Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan to discuss strategic partnerships.
The talks, which focused on maritime development and defence cooperation, reaffirmed the growing bond between the two nations.
Minister Nur hailed Turkey for its long-standing support, stating the two countries share “strong ties and mutual interests” that can propel Somalia’s development.
A key part of the discussions was infrastructure development. Turkish support is expected in constructing and modernizing vital port facilities, a move seen as crucial for Somalia’s economic revival. This cooperation aligns with a major deal signed earlier this year.
In February 2024, Somalia and Turkey inked a comprehensive Framework Agreement on Defence and Economic Cooperation.
The deal aims to build Somalia’s naval capacity and boost maritime security in the Horn of Africa.
Somalia has the longest coastline on the African mainland. Officials say protecting and developing this maritime space is essential for economic progress and regional influence.
The government hopes to turn Somalia into a leading logistics and trade hub in East Africa and the Indian Ocean.
Turkey’s role is seen as vital. Its investments and expertise will help modernize ports, train maritime professionals, and overhaul management systems.
These efforts are not limited to infrastructure alone but also target long-term capacity building.
The partnership is the latest chapter in a relationship that began gaining momentum after President Erdoğan’s historic visit to Somalia in 2011.
Since then, Turkey has played a central role in Somalia’s reconstruction through aid, security reforms, and training programs.
With new agreements in place and deeper collaboration on the horizon, Somalia is looking to the sea as a cornerstone of its economic and strategic future.
