By Zamzam Osman - Reporter
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Somalia, 23 April 2026 Somalia’s cabinet approved the UN Ocean treaty on high seas biodiversity, joining global efforts to protect oceans.
The decision was made during the cabinet’s weekly meeting chaired by Prime Minister Hamza Abdi Barre, according to a statement issued by the Office of the Prime Minister.
The treaty, commonly known as the BBNJ Agreement, was adopted by the United Nations in June 2023 after years of negotiations under the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS). It is the first treaty specifically focused on protecting biodiversity in international waters, which account for nearly two-thirds of the world’s oceans.
The agreement establishes frameworks for creating marine protected areas, conducting environmental impact assessments for activities such as fishing and seabed exploration, and ensuring fair sharing of benefits derived from marine genetic resources.
Somalia’s approval reflects its support for global ocean governance and the sustainable use of marine resources, as the country focusses on its coastal and maritime economy for growth.
The agreement will enter into force once a required number of countries ratify it, marking a significant step toward achieving global biodiversity and climate goals.