Somalia is preparing to launch its first-ever offshore oil drilling operation, marking what officials have described as a “historic milestone” in the country’s energy development.
The announcement comes as a Turkish government-owned drilling ship is expected to arrive off Somalia’s coast in the Arabian Sea, signalling the start of a new phase in exploration efforts.
Somalia’s Petroleum Minister, Dahir Shire, said the move represents a major step forward for the country’s economy. In a statement, he described the beginning of offshore drilling as “a new chapter” that could reshape Somalia’s future.
The operation follows the completion of seismic surveys carried out last year by a Turkish research vessel, which identified promising offshore sites believed to contain significant hydrocarbon reserves.
The drilling will be conducted by the Turkish Petroleum Corporation using its ship, Çağrı Bey, which is embarking on its first international mission. The vessel will carry out deep-water drilling in areas identified as having high potential for oil and gas deposits.
Somalia’s government believes that a successful discovery could unlock vast offshore reserves and help position the country as an emerging energy player in East Africa.
Officials say the project is part of a broader effort to boost economic recovery after decades of conflict and instability that have slowed development and discouraged large-scale investment.
The partnership between Somalia and Turkey was formalised in 2024 through a production-sharing agreement aimed at strengthening cooperation in the energy sector.
Somali Foreign Minister Ali Omar said the drilling campaign highlights Turkey’s role as a “trusted long-term partner” in Somalia’s development.
Meanwhile, Turkey’s Energy Minister Alparslan Bayraktar noted that any discovery of oil or gas would bring major economic benefits not only to Somalia but also to the wider East African region.
Turkey has steadily expanded its presence in Somalia over the past decade, investing in infrastructure and increasing its military footprint. It operates a major base in the country, further strengthening bilateral ties.
Experts estimate that Somalia could hold billions of barrels of oil reserves offshore. However, exploration has been delayed for years due to security challenges and political uncertainty.
With drilling now set to begin, Somalia is hoping to finally tap into its natural resources and use them to drive growth, create jobs, and improve living standards for its population.
