Mogadishu, Somalia – Somalia marked a major milestone in its maritime development on Wednesday with the inauguration of a new container terminal at Mogadishu port, significantly increasing the country’s cargo handling capacity.
The ceremony was led by the Minister of Ports and Marine Transport, Abdulkadir Mohamed Nur, alongside the port’s general manager, Amb. Mohamed Ali Nur Americo. The expansion raises the port’s annual throughput from 150,000 to 250,000 Twenty-Foot Equivalent Units (TEUs), positioning it to better serve the country’s growing trade needs.
Equipped with modern cranes and reach stackers, the new terminal is expected to enhance efficiency, reduce vessel turnaround times, and make Mogadishu more attractive to international shipping lines.
“This development is a testament to Somalia’s commitment to modernizing its maritime infrastructure and building a foundation for sustainable economic growth,” the minister said during the inauguration.
In addition to opening the new terminal, the officials also broke ground on a new headquarters for the harbour. The facility will serve as a central hub for administrative and operational functions, aiming to strengthen coordination and governance at Somalia’s busiest seaport.
Port manager Amb. Americo underscored the importance of the investment, noting that it aligns with broader efforts to revitalize Somalia’s economy.
“Mogadishu port is not just a lifeline for Somalia’s imports and exports, it is a gateway for regional trade. With these upgrades, we are improving service delivery and competitiveness in the Horn of Africa,” he stated.
The expansion comes at a time when Somalia is intensifying efforts to re-establish itself as a key player in regional trade, leveraging its strategic location along the Indian Ocean and the Gulf of Aden. Economists believe the increased capacity will ease bottlenecks, reduce costs for importers, and open new avenues for Somali exporters, particularly in livestock, fisheries, and agricultural products.
Analysts also point out that modernizing Mogadishu port strengthens Somalia’s position in a competitive maritime corridor that includes Djibouti, Berbera, and Mombasa. Enhanced infrastructure could help attract greater investment and foster regional integration.
The government has identified ports and transport as central pillars of its long-term development strategy, viewing efficient maritime trade as a driver of growth, job creation, and national revenue.