MOGADISHU — Türkiye’s deep-sea drilling vessel, Çağrı Bey, has arrived in Somali waters, marking the start of Somalia’s first offshore oil and gas exploration operations.
The vessel completed its journey from Türkiye and reached the coast of Mogadishu, where it is expected to begin drilling activities in areas identified as having potential hydrocarbon resources beneath the seabed. The operation represents the first time Somalia has undertaken active deep-sea exploration.
Officials said the project follows earlier seismic surveys conducted along Somalia’s coastline by the Turkish research vessel Oruç Reis, which mapped offshore blocks and identified promising drilling locations. The first well, known as Curad-1, is located approximately 372 kilometers off the Somali coast and is expected to be one of the deepest offshore wells globally.
The drilling campaign is set to last around 288 days, with operations taking place in المياه reaching depths of about 3,500 meters, while the well itself will extend to roughly 7,500 meters below sea level.
Somalia’s government described the arrival of the vessel as a major step forward in the country’s energy sector and economic development. Officials noted that the project reflects growing cooperation between Somalia and Türkiye, following agreements signed in 2024 covering oil and gas exploration.
Minister of Petroleum and Mineral Resources Dahir Shire said the launch of drilling marks a historic milestone in Somalia’s offshore energy journey, emphasizing the government’s commitment to developing natural resources in a transparent and responsible manner.
Türkiye’s Energy and Natural Resources Minister Alparslan Bayraktar also described the mission as a significant step in expanding Türkiye’s global energy role, adding that the project would benefit both countries and strengthen bilateral ties.
Security measures have been put in place along Somalia’s coast to support the operation and ensure the safety of personnel and equipment.
The development is seen as a key moment in Somalia’s efforts to unlock its natural resources and strengthen its economic prospects, as authorities move to translate earlier research into active exploration.
