Somalia, Turkey Step up Naval Cooperation to Bolster Maritime Security

GOOBJOOG NEWS | MOGADISHU: Somalia and Turkey agreed to deepen maritime security cooperation during talks in Mogadishu between State Minister of Defence Omar Abdi Ali and a visiting Turkish naval delegation led by Vice Admiral Mustafa Kaya, Chief of Staff of the Turkish Navy.

The discussions focused on expanding training programmes, strengthening the operational capacity of the Somali Navy and Coast Guard, and enhancing strategic coordination between the two countries.

The engagement is expected to accelerate capacity-building efforts aimed at enabling Somali forces to better secure the country’s coastline, counter piracy and trafficking, and respond to emerging maritime threats.

Somalia has one of Africa’s longest coastlines, making maritime security central to national stability, economic protection and regional trade. Strengthening naval capabilities is also seen as critical to safeguarding fisheries and offshore resources.

The defence ministry said Türkiye’s continued support plays a key role in rebuilding Somalia’s armed forces and advancing long-term security sector reforms.

The meeting was attended by senior Somali National Army officials, including the Commander of the Navy and Coast Guard, Brigadier General Cabdiwahaab Cabdullaahi Cumar, and representatives of the Turkish Armed Forces.

Enhanced naval cooperation signals Somalia’s growing focus on securing its maritime domain as part of broader efforts to reinforce sovereignty and economic resilience.