Drilling for Hope: How Turkey Could Help Transform Somalia’s Future

First Drilling Operations Are Just Around the Corner

Somalia is approaching one of the most critical stages in its energy journey as Turkey prepares to play a key role in oil and natural gas exploration. Somali Petroleum Authority officials have announced that the country’s first official drilling sites are expected to be announced in December, with drilling operations likely to begin in January. These activities are planned to cover two onshore and three offshore fields, marking a historic milestone for Somalia’s energy sector.

For decades, Somalia’s hydrocarbon potential has been discussed but never fully realized due to conflict, insecurity, and lack of infrastructure. The upcoming drilling operations therefore represent not only a technical achievement, but also a symbolic turning point for a country seeking long-term stability and economic recovery.

Expected Contributions to the Somali Economy

If successful, oil and natural gas exploration could significantly reshape Somalia’s economic future. Previous geological surveys and international assessments have long suggested that Somalia possesses substantial hydrocarbon reserves both on land and offshore. However, political instability prevented these resources from being developed and translated into economic growth.

The launch of drilling operations could generate multiple economic benefits:

• Increased Government Revenue: Oil and gas production could provide Somalia with a stable source of income, reducing its dependence on foreign aid. Revenues could be directed toward essential public services such as education, healthcare, infrastructure, and security.
• Employment and Skills Development: Exploration and production activities are expected to create direct and indirect employment opportunities for Somali citizens. Training programs and technology transfer could help build a skilled local workforce in the energy sector.
• Infrastructure and Industrial Growth: Energy projects require ports, roads, storage facilities, and power infrastructure. These investments could accelerate broader industrial development and improve overall connectivity within the country.
• Energy Security: Domestic energy production could reduce Somalia’s reliance on imported fuels, contributing to greater energy independence and price stability.

If managed transparently and responsibly, Somalia’s oil and gas resources could become a catalyst for inclusive growth rather than a source of conflict.

Lessons from Earlier Discoveries

Somalia is not starting from scratch. Previous exploration efforts confirmed the presence of hydrocarbon-bearing basins, but the absence of security and governance frameworks prevented commercial development. Today, with improved institutional capacity and international partnerships, Somalia has a stronger foundation to ensure that future discoveries translate into tangible economic gains.

International experience shows that natural resource wealth can either accelerate development or deepen inequality. Somali authorities have emphasized the importance of transparency, fair revenue sharing, and strong regulatory oversight to ensure that oil and gas revenues benefit the broader population.

Impact on Türkiye–Somalia Relations

Energy cooperation adds a new strategic dimension to the already strong relationship between Turkey and Somalia. Since 2011, Turkey has been one of Somalia’s most consistent partners, investing heavily in humanitarian aid, infrastructure, education, health services, and security sector reform.

The energy partnership reflects a long-term, trust-based relationship rather than a short-term commercial venture. Turkey’s technical expertise, combined with Somalia’s untapped resources, creates a mutually beneficial framework. For Somalia, Turkey offers capacity building and investment; for Turkey, the partnership strengthens its role as a key economic and diplomatic actor in Africa.

This collaboration also reinforces regional stability, as economic development and energy security are closely linked to peace and governance.

A Hopeful Path Forward

Somalia’s upcoming drilling operations represent more than an energy project—they symbolize hope for a nation that has endured decades of hardship. With the support of Turkey and other international partners, Somalia has an opportunity to turn natural resources into sustainable development.

If managed wisely, oil and natural gas could help Somalia move toward self-reliance, improved living standards, and long-term stability. At the same time, Turkey–Somalia relations are likely to deepen further, evolving into a strategic partnership anchored in energy, development, and shared interests.

The months ahead may well define Somalia’s economic trajectory for generations to come.