Italian Ambassador Meets Fisheries Minister as Somalia’s Fish Exports Increase

MOGADISHU — The Minister of Fisheries and Blue Economy of the Federal Government of Somalia, Ahmed Hassan Adan, has received Italy’s Ambassador to Somalia, Pier Mario Daccò Coppi, at his office in Mogadishu to discuss strengthening the country’s fisheries sector and supporting Somali fishermen.

The two officials discussed ways to increase fisheries production and enhance support for Somali fishing communities to enable them to benefit more effectively from the country’s marine resources.

Speaking to the National Media after the meeting, Minister Ahmed Hassan Adan said Somalia’s fish exports to international markets have increased, describing the growth as an important and encouraging development for the country’s fisheries sector.

Somalia and Italy have previously agreed to strengthen cooperation in the fisheries sector, with the two countries agreeing on the need to invest in the fishery sector in Somalia. Italy has also pledged to support Somalia’s infrastructural development and maritime security.

Somalia’s blue economy holds a billion-dollar promise, according to officials, with the potential to transform livelihoods and strengthen the economy if properly managed and protected from illegal fishing.

The Ministry of Fisheries and Blue Economy has been working to advance Somalia’s blue economy agenda, including through cooperation with the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (UNECA) on the Blue Economy Valuation Study and Toolkit.

Italy’s Engagement in Somalia’s Fisheries Sector

The meeting between Minister Adan and Ambassador Daccò Coppi reflects Italy’s continued interest in supporting Somalia’s fisheries sector. Italy has historically been one of Somalia’s key development partners, with ongoing cooperation in various sectors, including infrastructure, education, and maritime resources.

The Italian embassy in Mogadishu has previously engaged with Somali authorities on issues related to food security and economic development. The fisheries sector has been identified as a priority area for cooperation, given Somalia’s potential to become a major player in the global seafood market.

The Ministry of Fisheries and Blue Economy has been working to strengthen fisheries production and expand support for Somali fishermen as part of efforts to develop the sector and increase the sustainable use of Somalia’s marine resources.

Somalia and Egypt have also agreed to enhance cooperation in fisheries, blue economy, and petroleum and mineral resources, reflecting growing international interest in Somalia’s maritime resources.

Somalia has established a major fisheries partnership with Turkey through the SOMTÜRK joint venture, which aims to advance the country’s blue economy and promote the sustainable management of marine resources.

The Ministry of Fisheries and Blue Economy has been actively coordinating fisheries policy through the Fisheries Management and Development Council (FMDC), which serves as the main coordinating entity for marine and fisheries policy nationwide.

Critical Note

While the meeting between Minister Adan and Ambassador Daccò Coppi reflects growing international interest in Somalia’s fisheries sector, the country faces significant challenges in realising its blue economy potential. Illegal fishing by foreign vessels continues to deplete Somali waters, costing the country millions of dollars annually. The lack of effective enforcement and monitoring mechanisms, combined with weak governance in the fisheries sector, undermines efforts to develop a sustainable fishing industry.

The government must prioritise the fight against illegal fishing, invest in port infrastructure and cold storage facilities, and provide support to local fishermen to ensure that the benefits of the blue economy reach Somali communities. Furthermore, while international partnerships are valuable, they must be structured in a way that ensures Somalia retains control over its maritime resources and that local communities are the primary beneficiaries of any economic activity in the sector.