Somalia’s Ministry of Fisheries and Blue Economy has announced a major partnership with Abu Dhabi Ports Group aimed at revitalizing the nation’s fisheries and coastal infrastructure. This collaboration, recently approved by Somalia’s Council of Ministers, sets forth a detailed strategy to enhance the fishing industry, modernize port facilities, and launch vocational programs to equip local fishers with new skills.
The Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) outlines plans for building new fishing ports, installing marine monitoring systems, and establishing training centers designed to uplift Somalia’s coastal economy, especially in fishing-dependent regions like Puntland and Galmudug.
Captain Mohamed Juma Al Shamisi, CEO of Abu Dhabi Ports Group, highlighted the initiative’s goals: “By partnering with Somalia, we aim to drive sustainable development, foster community growth, and unlock economic potential in the fishing industry.” The UAE-based group, with established projects across Africa and Asia, seeks to leverage its extensive experience to support Somalia’s economic and infrastructural growth.
Somali Prime Minister Hamza Abdi Barre formally endorsed the MoU with Abu Dhabi Ports Group during a July cabinet meeting, further underscoring the government’s commitment to enhancing Somalia’s maritime sector.
Minister of Fisheries and Blue Economy Ahmed Hassan Adam emphasized the deal’s importance, describing it as an “investment in the people and resources of Somalia.” He stressed that the agreement would lay the groundwork for long-term economic resilience and growth within coastal communities.
With Somalia’s critical position along the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden, the MoU aligns with broader efforts by the UAE to strengthen its role in African markets, underscoring Somalia’s strategic significance as a trading hub.