Somalia Opens First Maritime Science Institute in Mogadishu

Somalia, 24 May 2026 Somalia’s federal government on Saturday inaugurated the Somali Maritime Science Institute in Mogadishu, marking the country’s first formal institution dedicated to marine science education and maritime resource management.

The institute, launched by the Ministry of Transport and Ports, is expected to train a new generation of Somali professionals in maritime studies, ocean management and the sustainable development of the country’s marine resources.

Officials said the institute would help address a longstanding shortage of qualified maritime specialists in Somalia, which possesses Africa’s longest coastline but has historically lacked formal marine science institutions.

Speaking during the inauguration ceremony, the Minister of Transport and Ports said the government aims to secure international recognition for the institute’s academic programmes and maritime certifications.

“We hope the maritime programmes and diplomas offered here will receive recognition from universities and institutions around the world,” the minister said. “Likewise, the Somali seafarer registry will gain broader international recognition.”