Somalia has signed a major cooperation agreement with Turkish industrial conglomerate OYAK aimed at transforming the country’s fisheries sector and accelerating the development of its blue economy.
The agreement was finalized on Tuesday, December 17, 2025, in Ankara by Somalia’s Minister of Fisheries and Blue Economy, H.E. Ahmed Hassan Adan. The signing formally launched the Cooperation and Marine Production Development Partnership, a strategic initiative focused on protecting Somalia’s marine resources while increasing their economic value.
The ceremony took place at OYAK’s headquarters, where Minister Ahmed was received by Türkiye’s Minister of National Defense, underscoring the high-level political and strategic importance of the deal. The agreement was witnessed by Somalia’s Minister of Ports and Marine Transport, H.E. Abdulkadir Mohamed Nur, and the Director General of the Ministry of Fisheries, Mr. Abdi Dirshe.
Under the partnership, OYAK will channel direct investment into Somalia’s blue economy infrastructure. Key priorities include increasing fish production to meet international market standards, establishing domestic fish processing industries, and enhancing the technical and professional skills of Somali fishermen. The initiative is also expected to integrate Somali seafood products into global supply chains.
Maritime security forms a central pillar of the agreement, with specific measures aimed at combating illegal fishing and protecting Somalia’s extensive coastline. The project is projected to create thousands of jobs, particularly for young people and communities living in coastal areas.
Minister Ahmed Hassan Adan welcomed the partnership, praising the Turkish government and OYAK for their confidence in Somalia’s improving security environment and investment climate. He said the agreement reflects growing international trust in Somalia’s recovery and its potential as a destination for large-scale investment.
Turkish officials from the Ministries of Defense, Agriculture and Forestry, and Foreign Affairs, along with OYAK executives, described the deal as strategically significant. They noted that the partnership strengthens long-standing ties between Somalia and Türkiye and supports shared goals of sustainable development, economic growth, and job creation.
The agreement marks a new milestone in bilateral cooperation and is expected to play a key role in unlocking Somalia’s vast marine potential as the country continues its path toward economic stabilization and growth.
