By Zakaria Hassan - Reporter
Somalia, April 16, 2026 Somalia has ordered all fishing vessels operating along its coastline to register with the federal government, in a move aimed at strengthening oversight of the fisheries sector and curbing illegal fishing, officials said on Thursday.
The directive was announced at the opening of the 7th Fisheries Management and Development Council meeting in Mogadishu, bringing together federal and regional officials, industry representatives and experts.
The three-day conference is focusing on accelerating growth in the fisheries sector, addressing challenges facing local fishermen and improving coordination between federal and regional authorities.
Officials said mandatory registration forms part of broader efforts to formalise the industry and improve monitoring of fishing activities.
Abdi Dirshe, director general at the Ministry of Fisheries, said more than 1,000 vessels had already been registered as authorities stepped up enforcement.
“Every vessel operating in Somalia must be properly registered. Thousands of boats have already been documented,” he said.
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Illegal fishing by foreign vessels was identified as a key concern, with regional ministers warning that such activities continue to undermine local livelihoods and deplete marine resources.
Participants also highlighted challenges including limited equipment and tax-related constraints affecting fishermen and the wider industry.
Officials said the conference is also aimed at attracting investment and unlocking the economic potential of Somalia’s coastline, one of the longest in Africa.
They added that a Turkish company had signed a long-term agreement with the Somali government to cooperate in fisheries development, signalling closer sectoral ties between Somalia and Turkiye
Regional representatives called for stronger enforcement in coastal areas to deter illegal foreign fishing vessels and protect domestic operators.
The meeting is part of broader government efforts to strengthen regulation, boost investment and maximise the potential of Somalia’s marine resources.