Mogadishu — The Mogadishu Port Authority (MPA) has redefined its standing in the Horn of Africa’s maritime logistics sector, concluding January 2026 with historic operational figures that signal a major shift in the nation’s economic trajectory. In a development that elevates the port from a final destination to a regional transit node, the Mediterranean Shipping Company (MSC) has inaugurated a direct service linking Colombo, Sri Lanka, to the Somali capital.
This strategic expansion was marked by the arrival of the MSC Silver II, which successfully discharged transshipment cargo that was subsequently loaded onto the MSC Malin II. This operation formally commences transit activities at the port, a capability that allows Mogadishu to serve as a redistribution point for goods destined for other markets in the region. The establishment of the Colombo-Mogadishu corridor significantly reduces lead times for importers and integrates Somalia more deeply into the primary trade routes of the Indian Ocean.
The launch of these transit operations coincides with an unprecedented surge in cargo volume. Data released by the MPA reveals that January 2026 was the most productive month in the port’s history. The facility processed a record 21,650 TEUs (Twenty-foot Equivalent Units) and serviced 16 container vessels in a single month. These figures represent a sharp increase in throughput capacity and reflect the growing confidence international shipping lines place in the port’s security and operational reliability.
Port officials attribute this surge in efficiency to the strategic direction of the new management team and the heightened capability of the workforce. By streamlining handling processes and reducing vessel turnaround times, the administration has demonstrated that Mogadishu can compete with established regional ports. The ability to handle complex transshipment operations while simultaneously breaking volume records indicates that the port’s infrastructure and management systems have matured to meet global standards.
For the Federal Government of Somalia, this success serves as a tangible economic victory. The transformation of the port into a transshipment hub attracts foreign direct investment and generates revenue streams beyond traditional import tariffs. As global carriers like MSC deepen their engagement, the port is positioning itself as a critical engine for the country’s post-conflict economic revival and a key player in East African logistics.
