Türkiye’s seismic research vessel Oruç Reis has completed 50% of its seismic surveys in Somali waters, marking a key milestone in offshore oil and gas exploration. Somali Minister of Petroleum and Mineral Resources, Dahir Shire Mohamed, met with Turkish officials in Istanbul to discuss the next phase of exploration and potential onshore collaborations.
Both sides also agreed to initiate a new partnership in the mining sector, expanding Türkiye-Somalia cooperation beyond oil and gas. According to experts if seismic data confirms promising reserves, this exploration could be a game-changer for Somalia and the Horn of Africa’s energy landscape.
The Oruç Reis vessel first arrived in Somalia in October 2024 as part of a bilateral energy agreement, and the seismic survey is expected to be completed within one year.
In an X post seen by the Wall Africa Journal, Türkiye’s Minister of Energy and Natural Resources, Alparslan Bayraktar, confirmed the development, stating:
“Our Oruç Reis vessel has completed 50% of its seismic surveys in Somali waters. We evaluated the next phase of exploration and discussed new collaborations in onshore areas with the Somali Minister. Additionally, we have decided to launch a new partnership in the mining sector.”
The meeting underscored Türkiye’s commitment to strengthening energy and mining cooperation with Somalia, reflecting the close and strategic ties between the two nations.