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Somalia could catch 800,000 tonnes of tuna worth $2 billion a year, fisheries chief says, pointing to the immense untapped economic potential residing within the nation’s vast maritime territory. Addressing international investors, maritime experts, and policy stakeholders during a blue economy conference, senior officials from the Ministry of Fisheries and Blue Economy outlined strategic projections for the country’s maritime sector. Government data highlights that Somalia possesses the longest coastline in mainland Africa, spanning over 3,300 kilometers, which grants access to rich oceanic feeding grounds that support major migratory tuna stocks across the western Indian Ocean.
Federal health and maritime authorities note that realizing this economic yield will require substantial capital investments in cold-chain logistics, processing plants, modern fishing fleets, and harbor infrastructure. Currently, illegal, unreported, and unregulated fishing by foreign vessels, alongside limited domestic processing capacity, prevents coastal communities from capturing the full commercial value of these marine assets. Officials emphasize that establishing regulated fishing zones, strengthening maritime domain awareness, and improving port facilities in coastal hubs will enable local enterprises to participate directly in the lucrative international seafood trade.
Economic policy analysts observe that expanding commercial fisheries offers a transformative path toward national revenue diversification and youth employment. Federal ministries are actively formulating new regulatory frameworks to issue transparent commercial fishing licenses, mandate sustainable catch reporting, and enforce marine conservation standards within Somalia’s Exclusive Economic Zone. Furthermore, international development partners and regional maritime organizations are assisting federal authorities to bolster maritime security patrols, ensuring that national waters are protected against environmental degradation and unauthorized industrial exploitation.
Civic leaders and coastal business representatives have commended the ministry’s forward-looking strategic vision, stressing that sustainable fisheries management can drive long-term economic stability. Government representatives reiterated their commitment to fostering foreign direct investment and building public-private partnerships that modernize the seafood supply chain while preserving ocean ecosystems. As Somalia could catch 800,000 tonnes of tuna worth $2 billion a year, fisheries chief says, federal institutions remain focused on translating these extensive natural resources into tangible economic development and national prosperity.