By Abdullahi Salad - Reporter
Somalia, 29 December 2025 Somalia is set to officially announce its status as an oil-producing nation following the conclusion of a significant oil and gas assessment.
President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud will meet his Turkish counterpart in Istanbul tomorrow to reveal the findings of recent geological surveys, which indicate substantial oil and gas reserves both offshore and onshore.
Preliminary data from reliable sources, confirmed by Dawan Africa, points to commercially viable hydrocarbon resources, with Somalia’s sedimentary basins considered highly prospective. The announcement comes as part of an ongoing partnership with Turkish Petroleum Corporation (TPAO), which has been conducting seismic surveys and preparing for exploratory drilling.
The two countries are also set to sign an expanded agreement to explore onshore oil and gas reserves across an area of 16,000 square kilometers. This marks a critical transition for Somalia, moving from the exploration phase to potential upstream development. The government aims to harness its hydrocarbon resources for sustainable economic growth.
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While Somalia has yet to commence commercial production, this declaration represents a pivotal moment for the country’s energy sector, laying the groundwork for future oil exports and attracting foreign investment.
Somalia’s hydrocarbon potential has gained increasing attention in recent years after decades of limited exploration due to conflict. Preliminary seismic studies suggest that the country’s offshore and onshore basins may contain up to 30 billion barrels of oil and gas equivalent. Key exploration areas include the Indian Ocean offshore blocks, which resemble successful hydrocarbon-rich basins found in East Africa, according to data from the U.S. Department of Commerce and Trade.
The Somali government has made significant strides in attracting international investment by establishing a solid regulatory framework. This includes Production Sharing Agreements (PSAs) with global energy firms, such as Turkish Petroleum Corporation (TPAO). These agreements focus on seismic surveys and drilling operations, positioning Somalia to move from exploration to commercial development.
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