Renewed Energy Alliances: Türkiye and Somalia

On April 10, Türkiye and Somalia reached a significant milestone in their partnership during a signing ceremony in Ankara. This agreement marks a transformative expansion of their energy alliance, allowing Türkiye to explore three onshore blocks totaling nearly 16,000 square kilometers. The implications of this deal extend far beyond mere diplomatic gestures; they signify the dawning of a new era for Somalia’s energy sector.

For decades, Somalia’s rich hydrocarbon reserves have remained largely untapped, buried beneath a complex history of turmoil and conflict. Yet, with the strengthening ties to Türkiye—now not only a steadfast supporter but also an active investor—Somalia’s energy future appears bright, offering hope and potential economic rejuvenation.

This shift isn’t just a few lines on a document; it reflects the meaningful evolution of international alliances. Since the Turkish research vessel, Oruç Reis, first arrived in Mogadishu Port in 2024, it has become a staple off the coast, undertaking seismic surveys that play a crucial role in exploring the country’s hydrocarbon potential. Captain Yasar Ozkan has expertly navigated these waters, but he isn’t just charting oil and gas; he is tracing the contours of a new geopolitical landscape.

Experts point out that this activity signifies more than just preliminary exploration; it heralds an awakening for the Horn of Africa, which has long been marred by instability. Last year marked a turning point, not merely in the technical feasibility assessments of Somalia’s hydrocarbon resources but in the initiation of a promising cycle of collaboration between Türkiye and Somalia. In what ways will this cooperation reshape the realities for the Somali people? It’s a question deserving of attention.

With the agreement now in place, Türkiye’s state-owned Turkish Petroleum Corporation (TPAO) will undertake seismic studies that could lead to drilling activities if the data support such efforts. The thirst for energy resources has rekindled interest in a region where, for too long, potential lay in cold storage.

Historical Context

To fully grasp the significance of this moment, we must reflect on Somalia’s past. Initial claims about the country’s hydrocarbon wealth date back several decades, with preliminary surveys conducted both pre- and post-independence in 1960 revealing substantial oil and gas deposits lurking beneath the surface. Yet, this promise was punctuated by the civil unrest that unraveled throughout the 1990s, resulting in the complete withdrawal of international interest.

Recalling those tumultuous years, one might wonder: How does a nation with such promise become a cautionary tale? It wasn’t until about a decade ago that international attention began to shift back toward Somalia’s rich resources due to enticing 2D seismic data hinting at vast offshore reserves. However, ghosts of instability and the absence of transparent legal frameworks kept major players at bay, as trust was a luxury Somalia could not afford.

The Rise of Türkiye’s Influence

The resurgence of Türkiye’s involvement can be traced back to 2011, when then-Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdoğan made a historic visit to Somalia during a devastating famine. Erdoğan’s visit wasn’t merely an act of charity; it marked the beginning of a long-term relationship based on mutual respect and support. Since then, Türkiye has invested over $1 billion into Somalia, contributing toward rebuilding infrastructure, enhancing education and healthcare systems, and revamping critical transport facilities such as airports and seaports.

This partnership has only grown stronger, illustrated through the establishment of TURKSOM, Türkiye’s largest overseas military training base, located in Mogadishu. Here, the prime aim isn’t just security but also a broader commitment to Somali stability and prosperity. In recent years, Turkish Energy Minister Alparslan Bayraktar expressed, “We want to contribute to the welfare of the Somali people and strengthen our friendship through investments that extend beyond oil and gas.”

The intergovernmental agreement signed in Istanbul on March 7, 2024, stands as another cornerstone of this evolving relationship, granting TPAO licenses for three strategically important offshore blocks. While this represents just a slice of Somalia’s offshore potential—which includes 216 unexplored blocks—Somalia’s State Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ali Omar, views it as an essential jumping-off point for future ventures.

A Vision for the Future

“The Somali region, often remembered for conflict and instability, now stands on the cusp of economic development,” President Erdoğan said as he launched the Oruç Reis on its seismic expedition in October 2024. The recent announcement that 78% of offshore 3D seismic surveys have already been completed adds to the optimism. Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud remarked, “This is the first time in history that Somalia’s oil and gas reserves are being properly explored.”

How will these developments reshape Somalia’s image? As Türkiye’s engagement continues to deepen, it does more than provide investment; it unravels a tapestry of hope, transforming apprehension into opportunity. The September defense cooperation agreement further cements Türkiye as a critical player in safeguarding Somalia’s Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ), offering an intriguing proposition for a 30% share of prospective maritime revenues.

Within the intricate web of international relations, Türkiye’s involvement in Somalia may well signal not just changes in energy, but a recalibration of power dynamics in the Indian Ocean corridor. As the Oruç Reis diligently collects seismic data, can it also be said to weave a narrative of renewed hope and mutual benefit?

Somalia, once perceived solely through the lens of its struggles, may soon be celebrated as a land of possibilities. As we continue to monitor these developments, it is essential to remain vigilant and engaged. What challenges might arise, and how will the people navigate this newfound ambition?

This partnership between Türkiye and Somalia could serve as a beacon of transformative diplomacy in a world that often demands nuanced solutions. Will it live up to its potential? Only time will tell.

Edited By Ali Musa
Axadle Times International – Monitoring.