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Somalia is taking a bold step toward reviving its long-dormant uranium sector by partnering with domestic firm Almond Energy in a strategic move that aims to breathe life into the country’s underexplored mineral resources. The initiative, backed by President Hassan Sheikh Mohamoud’s administration, reflects growing interest in harnessing Somalia’s natural wealth as part of a broader push for economic development and energy diversification.
The government has officially named Almond Energy as its lead partner in the renewed push for uranium exploration, positioning the Somali-owned company at the forefront of one of the country’s most ambitious extractive industry efforts in decades. The collaboration signals Mogadishu’s desire to reassert control over its natural resources while opening the door to foreign investment that could bring critical infrastructure, technology, and capital to the sector.
For Somalia, this marks a significant departure from years of limited exploration activity and stalled resource development due to political instability, security challenges, and inadequate regulatory frameworks. The new partnership comes at a time when global demand for uranium is surging, driven by renewed interest in nuclear energy as countries seek alternatives to fossil fuels and look to meet climate targets. With uranium prices climbing and major economies investing in nuclear capacity, Somalia’s government is betting that its untapped deposits could position the country as a competitive player in the global energy market.
Almond Energy, a growing presence in Somalia’s energy and logistics landscape, is part of the larger Almond Group Holdings, which has expanded its footprint across sectors including aviation, transport, and tourism. The company’s involvement in uranium exploration is a natural extension of its broader ambitions in energy development and infrastructure-led growth.
President Mohamoud’s administration is also courting international investors to complement the domestic partnership with Almond Energy. Officials hope to entice mining and energy firms from Europe, Asia, and the Gulf to invest in Somalia’s mining sector through joint ventures, technical partnerships, and equity stakes. To support this effort, the government is working on updates to the country’s mining code, aiming to improve transparency, streamline licensing processes, and create a more predictable legal environment for foreign stakeholders.
Still, Somalia faces major hurdles in realizing its uranium ambitions. Decades of conflict have left much of the country’s infrastructure in disrepair, while persistent threats from militant groups such as al-Shabaab pose ongoing risks to security and investor confidence. Nevertheless, the government believes that with the right partners and clear regulatory reforms, the mining sector—especially uranium — can become a pillar of economic transformation.
Local communities and civil society groups are watching closely, raising questions about environmental safeguards, community benefits, and revenue sharing. In response, the Ministry of Petroleum and Mineral Resources has promised to ensure that any exploration or extraction activities follow international best practices, with a strong focus on sustainability and social impact.
The renewed focus on uranium also ties into Somalia’s broader vision of energy independence and industrial growth. As the country struggles with frequent blackouts, rising energy costs, and reliance on imported fuels, a revitalized energy sector could reduce those burdens while creating jobs, boosting exports, and funding essential public services.
By aligning with Almond Energy and signaling openness to global investors, Somalia is sending a clear message that it intends to reclaim its place in the regional energy and mining landscape. The success of this initiative could redefine the country’s economic future and mark a turning point in its long journey toward stability and prosperity.