The Federal Government of Somalia has officially launched Somtürk, a joint fisheries company established between the Somali Fisheries Company and Turkey’s OYAK Group, in a move aimed at strengthening the country’s blue economy and advancing sustainable marine resource management.
The inauguration ceremony, held in the capital Mogadishu—often referred to as the “Pearl of the Indian Ocean”—was attended by Second Deputy Prime Minister Jibril Abdirashid Haji, who underscored the strategic importance of the partnership. He described the initiative as a significant step toward economic development and the sustainable utilization of Somalia’s vast marine resources.
Somtürk is designed to enhance the production and management of fisheries, protect natural marine ecosystems, and combat illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fishing, which continues to pose a major threat to Somalia’s economy and environment.
The company is part of the Ministry of Fisheries and Blue Economy’s broader plan to develop the fisheries sector and increase revenues from marine resources. The ministry has formally issued the company’s first operational license, marking the official commencement of Somtürk’s activities.
Officials say the initiative will attract new investments, introduce modern technologies, and create employment opportunities, particularly benefiting coastal communities. In addition, Somtürk is expected to strengthen the fisheries value chain—from production to processing and marketing.
The Ministry reaffirmed its commitment to the sustainable development, conservation, and efficient management of Somalia’s marine resources, in collaboration with both local and international partners, to ensure long-term benefits for the Somali people and the national economy.
