ANKARA, 30 December 2025 – The Presidents of Somalia and Turkey, Hassan Sheikh Mohamud and Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, announced on Tuesday that offshore oil drilling in Somalia’s coastal waters is set to begin next year, following successful geological surveys.
“Turkey plans to start oil drilling operations in 2026, and these efforts will make a significant contribution to the well-being of the Somali people,” President Erdoğan said.
The announcement comes after preliminary assessments by the Turkish Petroleum Corporation indicated the presence of commercially viable oil and gas off Somalia’s coast. President Mohamud described the findings as a key milestone in the country’s economic recovery.
“Discovering oil and gas represents a strategic opportunity that will significantly aid Somalia’s recovery,” he said. “We are fully committed to managing these resources responsibly, reflecting the interests of the Somali people.”
The development of these offshore reserves could transform Somalia’s economy, potentially placing the country among Africa’s oil-producing nations. The two leaders also confirmed that additional offshore exploration will commence next year, expressing confidence in positive outcomes.
During the meeting, Mohamud and Erdoğan discussed strengthening bilateral ties across multiple sectors, with particular focus on trade and security. President Mohamud’s visit to Turkey follows an invitation from President Erdoğan and includes discussions on Israel’s recent recognition of Somaliland, a move rejected by Turkey and other international actors defending Somalia’s sovereignty.
The announcement underscores Somalia’s growing role in regional energy development and the deepening partnership between Mogadishu and Ankara.
