MOGADISHU — The Federal Government of Somalia’s Cabinet has unanimously approved the new Marine Transport Registration Regulation, a move described by officials as a significant advancement in modernizing the nation’s maritime administration.
Speaking in Mogadishu on Thursday, the Minister of Ports and Marine Transport, Abdulkadir Mohamed Nur, welcomed the decision, noting that the framework addresses long-standing challenges in the sector.
Unified Legal Framework
The newly approved regulation creates a comprehensive and unified legal framework for registering vessels operating under the Somali flag. Minister Nur highlighted that this legislation is designed to enforce strict safety standards, improve monitoring procedures, and safeguard the reputation of Somalia‘s national flag in international waters.
Crucially, the framework ensures full compliance with binding international maritime conventions, marking a return to global regulatory standards for the country.
Eliminating Irregularities
Minister Nur indicated that this reform demonstrates the government’s dedication to solving systemic issues through strong institutional capacity.
By formalizing vessel registration procedures, the Ministry intends to eliminate irregularities that have historically affected the sector, aiming to create a transparent environment conducive to legitimate maritime trade.
“These corrective actions are vital for regaining international trust in Somalia’s maritime sector,” the Minister stated, adding that the reforms are anticipated to play a substantial role in the nation’s overall economic progress.
