MOGADISHU – The Minister of Fisheries and Blue Economy, Mr. Ahmed Hassan Adan, held a significant meeting with the World Bank’s Country Manager for Somalia, Mr. Hideki Matsunaga, to discuss and strengthen the ongoing partnership between the two entities. The dialogue centered on the notable progress achieved by the Badmaal Project, a key initiative aimed at revitalizing the nation’s fisheries sector.
The Badmaal Project, officially known as the Somali Sustainable Fisheries Development Project, is a groundbreaking initiative aimed at unlocking the immense potential of Somalia’s blue economy. With a substantial funding package of $55 million from the World Bank’s International Development Association (IDA), the project has made tangible advancements that have directly benefited Somali fishing communities. Discussions between Minister Adan and Mr. Matsunaga specifically focused on a range of crucial areas, including the development of fisheries infrastructure, the reform and modernization of fisheries legislation, and the empowerment of youth and women engaged in the sector.
Minister Adan highlighted the Ministry of Fisheries and Blue Economy’s commitment to ensuring the country’s marine resources are managed sustainably and utilized for the benefit of the Somali people. He stated that the World Bank’s collaboration has been instrumental in the successes achieved so far and emphasized the importance of continuing this partnership to meet future development goals.
On his part, Mr. Matsunaga, who was appointed to his role in July 2025, praised the Ministry’s dedication to advancing the blue economy and protecting Somalia’s marine resources. The two parties agreed to continue their strong working relationship to implement further projects aimed at supporting the livelihoods of fishing communities and enhancing the nation’s infrastructure.
This meeting signifies the strong commitment of the Ministry of Fisheries and Blue Economy to leverage international partnerships to achieve the country’s development aspirations, particularly in the vital marine and fisheries sector. The successful implementation of the Badmaal Project serves as a powerful model for how strategic collaboration can drive meaningful change and contribute to the nation’s long-term economic stability.
