Somali National Fisheries Week 2026 Opens in Mogadishu

Mogadishu, (SONNA) — Somali National Fisheries Week 2026 has opened in Mogadishu, bringing together government officials, parliamentarians, foreign delegates, investors, development partners, fishers, youth and other sectors of society to explore investment opportunities and ways to advance Somalia’s fisheries sector.

The event was officially opened by Deputy Prime Minister of the Federal Government of Somalia, H.E. Salah Ahmed Jama, and focused this year on investment and sustainable growth in the fisheries sector under the theme, “Coordinating Fisheries Investment Opportunities in Somalia: Building Partnerships for Sustainable Growth.”

Minister of Fisheries and Blue Economy, H.E. Ahmed Hasan Aden, highlighted the importance of developing Somalia’s fisheries sector and unlocking the potential of its marine resources, while calling on Somali businesses to invest in the sector.

Director General of the Ministry of Fisheries and Blue Economy, Abdi Dirshe, said the government aims to expand Somali fish exports to new international markets, including China, as interest in the country’s marine resources grows.

He noted that the Ministry has developed investment plans and studies, trained ministry staff and Somali fishers, and strengthened preparations to enable Somali fish products to access international markets.

Foreign Minister H.E. Abdisalam Abdi Ali commended the Ministry’s efforts to empower Somali fishers, promote Somali fish products abroad and provide reliable data to attract investment in the sector.

Minister of Agriculture, H.E. Mohamed Abdi Hayir Maareeye, called for easier access to financing, greater private-sector investment and increased engagement by the Somali diaspora, saying stronger partnerships could boost domestic production, create jobs and strengthen food security.

A panel discussion at the event examined practical financing solutions, ways to reduce investment risks and opportunities for sustainable growth, while the Badmaal Project highlighted its support for investment and Somali fishers.

H.E. Ferhat Alkan, Ambassador of Türkiye to Somalia, joined the Somali National Fisheries Week 2026 today, reaffirming the importance of partnership and cooperation in advancing Somalia’s fisheries sector.

Southwest State Minister of Fisheries Mohamed Osman Mohamed also addressed the forum on behalf of state-level fisheries ministers.

The annual Fisheries Week brings together key stakeholders to promote partnerships and investment aimed at developing Somalia’s fisheries sector and harnessing its marine resources for sustainable economic growth.