Mogadishu (SONNA) — The Minister of Petroleum of the Federal Government of Somalia, H.E. Daahir Shire Mohamed, has described as a “great and historic day” the departure from Türkiye of a drilling vessel set to begin offshore oil exploration in Somali waters.
The minister said the move signals Somalia’s recovery and its formal return to benefiting from its natural resources in a lawful and transparent manner.
“Today is a great and historic day. It reflects Somalia’s recovery and the rebuilding of its destiny with confidence toward a prosperous future,” the minister said. “The vessel heading to Somali waters today is not merely a technical asset; it is a national symbol — a symbol of hope, opportunity, and a new beginning grounded in legality, transparency, and responsibility.”
He emphasized that Somalia’s natural resources are a national asset and affirmed the government’s commitment to managing them transparently and equitably, in line with international standards, so that both present and future generations can benefit.
Daahir Shire Mohamed also called on Somalis at home and abroad to demonstrate unity and support for the ongoing oil exploration efforts.
Meanwhile, President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud has officially named the country’s first oil well “The First Drop.”
The development marks a significant milestone in Somalia’s efforts to harness its offshore energy potential as part of broader economic recovery and state-building initiatives.
