Mogadishu, Somalia – Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud has appointed Ambassador Mohamed Cali Ameriko as the new General Manager of Mogadishu Port, a strategic gateway for Somalia’s trade and economic growth.
The appointment, announced this week, places Ameriko at the helm of one of the country’s most vital economic assets. His leadership comes at a time when Somalia is working to strengthen its maritime infrastructure, expand trade capacity, and attract international investment.
Amb. Ameriko previously served as Somalia’s envoy to Kenya between October 2007 and April 2015, where he played a key role in rebuilding diplomatic ties and advancing regional cooperation. He also contested in the 2017 Somali presidential elections, demonstrating his longstanding engagement in national politics and governance.
Analysts say Ameriko’s diplomatic background and political experience could bring fresh momentum to the management of Mogadishu Port, which has long faced challenges ranging from infrastructure gaps to governance issues. The port remains Somalia’s largest and busiest, serving as a critical lifeline for imports, exports, and government revenue.
In recent years, Mogadishu Port has been central to Somalia’s economic recovery efforts, generating significant revenue for the federal government and supporting broader development goals. With Ameriko’s appointment, officials expect renewed focus on efficiency, transparency, and modernization of port operations.
The presidency has not released further details on Ameriko’s immediate priorities, but expectations are high that his leadership will align with President Mohamud’s broader vision of strengthening state institutions and enhancing Somalia’s economic resilience.
