Turkey to Send Research Vessel to Somalia to Boost Fishing Industry

GOOBJOOG NEWS | MOGADISHU: Turkey plans to send a marine research and fishing vessel to Somalia to help develop the country’s fisheries industry, as the two allies seek to turn Somalia’s vast marine resources into jobs and economic growth.

Turkish Ambassador to Somalia Ferhat Alkan announced the initiative during Somalia’s 2026 National Fisheries Week celebrations in Mogadishu, saying Ankara was committed to supporting the country’s efforts to strengthen its maritime economy.

The vessel is expected to support marine research and provide technical expertise and training for Somali fishermen, many of whom continue to rely on traditional fishing methods despite the country’s extensive coastline and rich fishing grounds.

Somalia has one of mainland Africa’s longest coastlines, stretching more than 3,300 kilometres along the Indian Ocean and Gulf of Aden. Its waters offer considerable potential for commercial fishing, but the industry remains underdeveloped because of limited infrastructure, modern equipment, cold-storage facilities and access to markets.

Expanding the fishing industry could provide new sources of income and employment for coastal communities, in a country where unemployment and limited economic opportunities remain major challenges.

Alkan said Turkish support would focus on sharing expertise, improving technical skills and strengthening the capacity of Somali institutions responsible for managing marine resources.

The initiative adds to Turkey’s expanding economic and strategic presence in Somalia, where Ankara has invested in infrastructure, provided military training and supported development programmes over the past decade.

Maritime cooperation has become an increasingly important part of the relationship, particularly as Somalia seeks greater control over its marine resources and opportunities to attract investment into its emerging blue economy.

The two countries have also strengthened cooperation in offshore energy exploration and maritime security, reflecting growing Turkish interest in Somalia’s strategic position along major international shipping routes.

Somalia’s Fisheries and Blue Economy Minister Ahmed Hassan Adan has been leading efforts to promote investment and improve the management of the country’s fishing industry.

Alkan praised the ministry’s initiatives and acknowledged the contribution of private companies, including SomTürk, to the fisheries sector.

The planned arrival of the Turkish vessel could help improve knowledge of Somalia’s marine resources while providing practical training for local fishermen and technical personnel.

However, Turkish officials have not announced when the vessel will arrive, how long it will operate in Somali waters or the scale of the training and research activities planned.

The federal government of Somalia is seeking to develop a more productive fishing industry capable of supporting coastal livelihoods, strengthening food security and generating greater revenue from its marine resources.