MOGADISHU, Somalia — In a major development for its maritime and naval capabilities, Somalia has officially launched a strategic plan to establish and develop the Somali Oceano-Hydrographic Office (SOHO). This national initiative was unveiled by the Commander of the Somali Navy and Coastal Defense, Commodore Admiral Abdiwahab Abdullahi, in collaboration with experts from the prestigious Italian Hydrographic Institute (IIM).
The SOHO is set to become the nation’s new, centralized authority for all marine and ocean data. Its establishment marks a critical step forward in Somalia’s ability to govern and protect its extensive territorial waters.
The SOHO will serve as the primary national institution for a wide array of critical functions. It is being designed as the main repository for all oceanographic data in Somalia, responsible for producing and updating essential navigational charts and maps to guide maritime traffic. Furthermore, the office will be mandated with ensuring the safety of all vessels by providing accurate and timely information, collecting vital data on marine weather patterns and Somalia’s tides, and providing the foundational data to support the security of the nation’s coastline. This office will play a direct and indispensable role in the comprehensive protection of Somalia’s coasts and the preservation of its vast marine resources.
The launch of this national plan is founded on a strong technical cooperation between Somalia and its Italian partners. The project is designed to be comprehensive, ensuring long-term success through investment in both people and technology.
The plan includes provisions for high-level, specialized training for Somali personnel, who will manage and operate the new office. This will be complemented by the acquisition of modern, state-of-the-art equipment necessary for sophisticated data collection and analysis. This strategic partnership is a clear move to bolster Somalia’s maritime self-sufficiency, aiming to significantly strengthen its naval capacity, enhance maritime safety, secure its coasts, and create a regulated environment for the sustainable exploitation of its rich marine resources.
