Somalia’s Offshore Gas Exploration Hits Major Milestone with Turkish Partnership
Preliminary Findings Show Promising Natural Gas Deposits
Somalia’s ambitious offshore oil and gas exploration project has reached a critical milestone in its first formal effort to unlock the country’s hydrocarbon potential in decades. According to informed sources in Ankara and Mogadishu, preliminary findings from the Turkish-led survey indicate at least two of three exploratory wells may contain commercially viable natural gas deposits.
Historic Energy Agreement with Turkey
The exploration stems from a landmark energy agreement signed between Somalia and Turkey on March 7, 2024, granting Turkish Petroleum Corporation (TPAO) exclusive rights to conduct seismic surveys, exploratory drilling, and potential production in three key offshore blocks.
“Over 90% of the data collected so far indicates the presence of commercially viable gas reserves,” revealed an anonymous technical source familiar with the findings.
Project Timeline and Potential Impact
Project sources confirm two of three test wells have completed preliminary assessments, with exploration ongoing for the third. Early estimates suggest possible reserves of up to 10 billion barrels of natural gas per well, though final confirmation awaits laboratory analysis.
All exploration activities are scheduled to conclude by August 2025, after which samples will undergo analysis in Turkish laboratories. If projections hold, Somalia could begin oil and gas extraction by year’s end – a transformative moment for the nation’s economy.
Economic and Geopolitical Implications
The potential discovery marks a turning point for Somalia’s fragile economy, traditionally dependent on remittances and aid. A successful energy sector could:
- Generate billions in revenue
- Create employment opportunities
- Strengthen national institutions
- Enhance regional geopolitical influence
The agreement, covering just three of Somalia’s 216 offshore blocks, was signed by former Somali Petroleum Minister Abdirizak Omar Mohamed and Turkish Energy Minister Alparslan Bayraktar. It establishes a model of mutual benefit, with Turkey providing financial investment, technical expertise, and geopolitical support.
“With Turkey by our side, Somalia is stepping into a new era where the world will see us differently,” declared President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, hailing the agreement as historic.
Next Steps for Somalia’s Energy Sector
Pending confirmation of reserves, Somalia will:
- Begin full-scale drilling and extraction (potentially by late 2025)
- Develop new regulatory frameworks
- Prepare local infrastructure
- Finalize fiscal terms for production-sharing agreements
Turkey’s involvement also strengthens Somalia’s strategic position as Ankara expands its influence in the Horn of Africa through economic, military, and diplomatic channels.