Somalia is preparing to launch its first offshore oil drilling campaign, a significant milestone in its long-awaited entry into the global energy market as it aims to tap into billions of barrels of potential reserves.
Officials in the East African country announced that a Turkish state-owned drilling ship is expected to arrive along its coastline on Friday to begin deep-sea exploration in the Arabian Sea.
This phase follows the completion of seismic studies carried out last year, which revealed strong indications of hydrocarbon deposits beneath Somalia’s offshore basins.
Petroleum Minister Dahir Shire described the initiative as a “historic milestone,” highlighting the country’s shift from preliminary exploration to actual drilling activities.
Authorities believe the project could position Somalia as a key regional energy player if commercially viable oil reserves are confirmed.
The drilling activities will be undertaken by the Turkish Petroleum Corporation using its vessel, Çağrı Bey, currently embarking on its first mission outside Türkiye. This underscores Türkiye’s growing involvement in Somalia’s energy industry.
Both nations strengthened their partnership in 2024 through a production-sharing agreement focused on offshore exploration and resource development.
The offshore initiative signals stronger relations between Somalia and Türkiye, which has expanded its economic and military influence in the Horn of Africa over the past decade. Ankara already runs one of its largest foreign military bases in Mogadishu and has made major investments in infrastructure, education, and security.
Somali Foreign Minister Ali Omar stated that the drilling effort reinforces Türkiye’s role as a dependable long-term partner, while Turkish Energy Minister Alparslan Bayraktar emphasized that any successful discovery would bring major economic benefits to both countries and the broader region.
Although Somalia is believed to possess significant untapped oil resources, exploration efforts have long been hindered by insecurity and political challenges.
Officials are optimistic that improved stability and international partnerships will help convert these natural resources into economic growth.
If the project yields positive results, the drilling campaign could transform Somalia’s economic outlook, providing a new source of revenue and strengthening its position in the competitive East African energy sector.