MOGADISHU, Somalia – Somalia’s federal government has announced the successful completion of the first phase of offshore oil and gas exploration, marking a significant step in its efforts to harness untapped energy resources in partnership with Turkey.
The seismic survey, carried out by Turkish Petroleum Corporation (TPAO), a state-owned energy firm, gathered critical geological data along Somalia’s coastline over 234 days. The operation began on October 21, 2024, and was conducted by the Oruç Reis, one of Turkey’s most advanced seismic research vessels.
“On June 15, 2025, the Ministry of Petroleum and Mineral Resources officially declares the completion of the first phase of oil exploration conducted by Turkish Petroleum,” the ministry said in a statement.
Major milestone for Somalia’s energy sector
The survey marks a pivotal moment for Somalia as it seeks to revive its economy and attract foreign investment after decades of instability. The exploration follows a production-sharing agreement signed with TPAO, granting the Turkish company rights to conduct seismic studies in Somalia’s offshore blocks.
The Oruç Reis collected high-resolution 2D and 3D data that will now undergo detailed analysis to determine the presence and quantity of hydrocarbons in the surveyed areas.
Officials said the findings could unlock long-term economic opportunities and help reduce Somalia’s dependence on external aid.
The Somali government emphasized that transparency, equity, and national benefit principles would guide future resource development.
“The resources will be developed transparently and fairly to support economic growth and improve the lives of Somali citizens,” the statement said.
Authorities pledged to release the survey results to the public once a verified analysis is completed. However, no specific timeline has been provided for the next steps, including potential exploratory drilling.
Turkish-Somali partnership deepens
The Ministry of Petroleum expressed gratitude to Turkey’s Ministry of Energy for facilitating the survey and strengthening bilateral cooperation. Turkish support has been central to Somalia’s infrastructure, education, and defense sectors over the past decade.
The ministry also credited President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud and Prime Minister Hamza Abdi Barre for their leadership in advancing Somalia’s energy strategy.
“This is a message of hope to the Somali people. The country is moving toward progress, guided by transparency and justice,” the statement concluded.
Somalia’s push to develop its offshore energy reserves comes amid ongoing political, security, and legal challenges. The country faces persistent threats from the al-Qaeda-linked al-Shabaab insurgency. It continues to rebuild institutions following years of civil war.
Despite these hurdles, experts believe Somalia’s offshore basins—located along the underexplored southern end of the East African Rift—may contain significant oil and gas reserves. Similar geological formations in Kenya, Uganda, and Mozambique have already yielded commercial discoveries.
The completion of this first seismic phase boosts hopes for future investment in Somalia’s offshore sector. However, analysts caution that further progress will depend on political stability, regulatory clarity, and improved security.
The government has not yet announced when exploratory drilling might begin. The timing will depend on the outcome of the data analysis, investor interest, and broader political developments.
Somalia’s offshore oil potential has intrigued energy experts for years, especially given recent discoveries in neighboring countries like Kenya and Mozambique. The country’s location along the East African Rift suggests it could hold significant reserves. However, until now, insecurity and political gridlock have made exploration nearly impossible.
If commercial quantities are confirmed, oil could transform Somalia’s economy—but experts warn that turning potential into progress will require strong governance, investor confidence, and sustained peace.