Imagine a nation reborn, its future tied to the vast, shimmering ocean. But what if that ocean’s potential remains untapped, locked behind weak governance and fragmented efforts? That’s the challenge Somalia faces, and it’s a challenge the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) is tackling head-on.
On November 7th, 2025, in Mogadishu, Somalia, IGAD, with the generous financial support of the Swedish government (Sida), joined forces with Somalia’s Ministry of Fisheries and Blue Economy to host a pivotal two-day national consultation workshop. The core mission? To fortify the very foundation of Somalia’s Blue Economy: its governance and coordination mechanisms. This project is designed to help Somalia leverage its ocean resources for economic growth and stability.
This wasn’t just another meeting. The workshop was a melting pot of expertise, bringing together senior government officials, voices from coastal communities, academic researchers, private sector innovators, and passionate civil society organizations. Their collective goal was crystal clear: to bolster Somalia’s national capacity, embed the Blue Economy into the nation’s institutional framework, advance the implementation of the National Blue Economy Strategy, and, crucially, to improve coordination in the sustainable management of Somalia’s precious marine and coastal resources. Improving Blue Economy Governance was a central agenda, a cornerstone of IGAD’s broader Regional Blue Economy Strategy.
“Our oceans and coastal ecosystems are not just resources — they are our future,” Ms. Raisa Mohamed, Director of the Blue Economy Department at the Ministry of Fisheries and Blue Economy, passionately declared in her opening remarks. She emphasized the vital role of integrated governance and local ownership in propelling Somalia’s maritime agenda forward. She further highlighted the ministry’s collaborative efforts with IGAD and other partners to bring Somalia’s National Blue Economy Strategy to life, aligning it seamlessly with regional frameworks. “Through partnership and shared learning, we can transform our marine and coastal assets into engines of resilience, job creation, and climate adaptation.”
Mr. Mohamud Kaarshe, IGAD Head of Mission to Somalia, reinforced IGAD’s unwavering commitment to supporting Somalia’s journey toward unlocking its Blue Economy potential for inclusive growth and deeper regional integration. He emphasized that a thriving Blue Economy could be a powerful catalyst for Somalia’s overall development.
Over the course of the two days, participants delved into the intricacies of national institutional frameworks and explored mechanisms for effective multi-sectoral coordination. The workshop also meticulously examined the vital connections between the Blue Economy and key priority areas, including fisheries management, maritime security (a particularly sensitive topic given Somalia’s history), climate resilience, and the livelihoods of coastal communities.
And this is the part most people miss… it’s not just about resources; it’s about security, resilience, and the very fabric of Somali society.
But here’s where it gets controversial… Some argue that focusing solely on economic gains could overshadow the crucial need for environmental protection and sustainable practices. Is there a risk of prioritizing short-term profits over the long-term health of Somalia’s marine ecosystems?
The outcomes of this crucial Mogadishu consultation will feed directly into IGAD’s ongoing regional assessment of Blue Economy governance. These insights will be instrumental in shaping a harmonized framework for all IGAD Member States. This initiative forms a critical part of IGAD’s broader vision: to strengthen institutional capacities and foster sustainable, inclusive, and climate-resilient Blue Economy development throughout the entire region. The ultimate goal is to empower Somalia and its neighbors to harness the full potential of their marine resources in a way that benefits both present and future generations.
What are your thoughts on Somalia’s Blue Economy potential? Do you believe that focusing on the Blue Economy is the right path forward for Somalia? And how can we ensure that economic development doesn’t come at the expense of environmental sustainability? Share your opinions in the comments below!