Somalia has embarked on its first offshore oil drilling campaign, marking a significant step toward potential resource-driven growth and reshaping regional energy dynamics.
According to Ali Omar, the initiative could transform the country’s economic future while strengthening its partnership with Türkiye as a long-term development ally.
The operation officially began with the arrival of the Turkish drillship Cagri Bey in Somali waters, where it is set to commence drilling at the Curad-1 well. The vessel departed earlier this year from the port of Taşucu in Mersin.
The project builds on earlier cooperation agreements signed in 2024 between Somalia and Türkiye, covering both onshore and offshore oil and gas exploration. Prior to drilling, the Turkish seismic ship Oruc Reis conducted surveys across multiple offshore blocks.
If successful, the initiative could position Somalia as an emerging player in the regional energy sector, while reinforcing Türkiye’s strategic presence in the Horn of Africa.
Source: TRT Africa
