Somalia Seeks EU Help to Build New Sea Port

GOOBJOOG NEWS|MOGADISHU: Somalia has sought the support of the European Union for the construction of a new port, underscoring the country’s drive to expand its trade infrastructure even as Mogadishu’s main port was ranked the best-performing in East Africa this year.

The request was made during a visit to Brussels by a high-level Somali delegation led by Finance Minister Bihi Imaan Ige. In meetings with EU officials, the delegation discussed strengthening economic cooperation and investing in infrastructure projects critical to Somalia’s recovery.

Following the talks, an EU delegation traveled to Mogadishu where they toured the capital’s seaport. Mohamed Ali Ameeriko, the port director, told reporters that the delegation had received a formal request to back the construction of a new facility.

The government has not yet disclosed the site of the planned port, but officials say an additional facility is essential to boost maritime trade and ease pressure on Mogadishu’s aging infrastructure.

The modern Mogadishu port developed in the 1920s by Italians and is currently managed by the Turkish company Albayrak. It was recognized this year as East Africa’s top-performing port in a regional assessment. Authorities credit ongoing reforms and private sector partnerships for improving efficiency and strengthening revenue collection.

The call for a new port highlights Somalia’s dual challenge of modernizing existing infrastructure while preparing for increased trade flows. Analysts say a second major port could help diversify trade routes and reduce congestion, supporting the government’s wider economic stabilization agenda.