NATO meets Galmudug state, pledges to implement development projects in Hobyo town

Officials from Galmudug state and several NATO Navy commanders of Indian Ocean Counter-piracy Mission have held talks on board one of NATO the ships offshore near Hobyo coastal town.

The sides discussed on wide range issues including anti-piracy operations, the emerging foreign fishing vessels in Somalia’s waters and development projects to be implemented by NATO.

Mohamed Awale, district commissioner of Hobyo speaking to Goobjoog News said that Denmark Navy commanders under NATO have had crucial meeting with some ministers from newly formed Galmudug state.

He pointed out that NATO pledged to implement several developmental projects in the coastal towns of Galmudug state.

“NATO commanders have promised to support and implement several projects that will be inaugurated soon to completely inhibit piracy” he said.

Hobyo DC highlighted that ministers submitted complains against the foreign fishing vessels which fish in Somalia waters.

Somali fishermen have complained about foreign vessels which are illegally fishing in Somali waters.

The chairman of Hibo umbrella, Somali Fishermen’s comparative society who spoke to Goobjoog News a week ago said they had faced continuous threats from foreign fishing boats which are equipped with weapons.

He underlined that the number of seafood has been decreased due the over fishing done by foreign vessels.

“Our job is in jeopardy, we have been several times chased by these vessels which are illegally taking our sea resources. We know that vessels benefit at the expense Somali fishermen and that is what has created the emergence of Somali pirates” he said.

He added that they stayed at their fearing for their dear lives after vessels poured them with hot water and destructed their nets.

Local Fishermen have continuously complained about foreign trawlers who are doing the illegal fishing and dumping waste.

Some fishermen have gone missing while others are tortured by the trawlers who at times spray boiling water from cannons.

The development comes a month after a campaign group warned of a possible resurgence of piracy in the Somali waters as a result of increased illegal fishing. Secure Fisheries noted in its report that foreign boats take three times much fish more than Somali fishermen totalling to 132,000 metric tons against Somalia’s 40,000 metric tons.

There has been a general lull in the Indian Ocean waters following a steady decline in piracy activities though there are reports pirates are still holding some foreign crews demanding ransom.