Mogadishu – Somalia is preparing to launch its first-ever offshore oil drilling operation within the coming months, President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud announced today, marking a transformative moment for the Horn of Africa nation.
Speaking before the bicameral federal parliament in Mogadishu, President Mohamud declared, “In the months ahead, drilling of Somalia’s first oil well will commence.” The confirmation signals a major advancement in the country’s long-delayed quest to exploit its vast untapped hydrocarbon reserves.
While the President did not specify the exact drilling site or the company leading the operation, previous agreements between Somalia and international energy firms — including U.S.-based Coastline Exploration and several European partners — suggest preparations are already underway. Offshore seismic surveys conducted in recent years have identified multiple promising blocks along Somalia’s Indian Ocean coastline.
If successful, the project could become a turning point for Somalia’s fragile economy, which has long relied on foreign aid, remittances, and livestock exports. Oil revenues could provide the government with a substantial new source of income to fund infrastructure, security, and social services.
However, analysts warn that the venture will require strong regulatory oversight to avoid the “resource curse” that has afflicted other developing nations. Transparency, revenue-sharing mechanisms with federal member states, and environmental safeguards will be critical to ensuring the sector benefits the Somali people.
Offshore drilling will also test Somalia’s ability to secure its maritime domain against piracy, militancy, and illegal fishing — long-standing threats in its coastal waters. Moreover, ongoing maritime boundary sensitivities with neighbouring Kenya could complicate exploration efforts unless managed diplomatically.
Despite these challenges, President Mohamud’s announcement reflects growing government confidence following recent gains in debt relief, renewable energy expansion, and institutional reforms.
If drilling proceeds on schedule, Somalia could join the ranks of emerging African oil producers — turning an era of potential into measurable progress.