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Türkiye has officially launched TRT Somali, a new addition to its state-owned Turkish Radio and Television Corporation (TRT) network. This move marks a significant step in Türkiye’s strategy to expand its media presence across Africa, strengthening its influence in the region through soft power and cultural diplomacy.
TRT Somali will broadcast in the Somali language, offering an alternative to Western-dominated media narratives while promoting Türkiye’s interests in the Horn of Africa. This expansion aligns with Türkiye’s broader foreign policy objectives, which include deepening diplomatic, economic, and security ties with Somalia. By addressing key issues such as human capital development, agriculture, the blue economy, and energy, TRT Somali aims to showcase Somalia’s resilience and growth to both regional and global audiences.
This latest development follows the successful launch of TRT Afrika in 2023. TRT Afrika has extended Türkiye’s media reach across the continent, operating in multiple African nations, including Gambia, Morocco, Nigeria, and Cameroon. The network broadcasts in English, French, Swahili, and Hausa, providing exclusive digital content and in-depth stories focused on African affairs. Türkiye’s growing media footprint reflects its ambition to offer alternative perspectives and strengthen its role as a key player in African affairs.
TRT Somali joins Türkiye’s expanding portfolio of over 45 international digital news channels, including TRT WORLD, TRT Français, TRT Arabi, TRT Balkan, TRT Russia, and TRT Deutsch. The addition of a Somali-language channel underlines Türkiye’s commitment to fostering cultural and diplomatic ties with Somalia, a country with which it shares deep historical connections. These relations date back to the Ottoman Empire and have been further strengthened in recent years through humanitarian aid, infrastructure projects, and security cooperation.
Türkiye’s engagement with Somalia gained momentum in 2011 when President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan became the first non-African leader in decades to visit Mogadishu. His visit came at a time when Somalia was facing a devastating famine, prompting Türkiye to launch one of the largest international humanitarian aid efforts. Over $201 million in aid was provided, significantly boosting Somalia’s recovery efforts. Since then, Türkiye has solidified its position as one of Somalia’s most influential partners, contributing to the country’s reconstruction and economic development.
Turkish companies have played a crucial role in modernizing Somalia’s infrastructure, leading projects such as hospital renovations, school construction, and the expansion of Mogadishu’s Aden Adde International Airport. Turkish Airlines also became the first major international carrier to resume flights to Somalia after two decades, enhancing economic connectivity and trade opportunities.
Beyond economic and media investments, Türkiye has made significant contributions to Somalia’s security sector. In 2017, Türkiye established its largest overseas embassy and military base in Mogadishu. This facility has trained thousands of Somali soldiers, reinforcing the country’s ability to combat extremist groups and maintain stability. The military partnership between Türkiye and Somalia continues to grow, positioning Türkiye as a key ally in Somalia’s long-term security and defense strategy.
With the launch of TRT Somali, Türkiye is not only broadening its media influence but also reinforcing its role as a strategic partner in Africa. By shaping narratives and strengthening diplomatic relationships, Türkiye is positioning itself as a major player in the region. As media consumption continues to evolve, TRT Somali is expected to serve as a critical platform for delivering news, cultural programs, and discussions that reflect Somalia’s progress and challenges.
Türkiye’s expanding footprint in Africa, through both media and direct investments, underscores its commitment to fostering closer ties with the continent. The launch of TRT Somali is a testament to this long-term vision, as Türkiye continues to build bridges and shape the information landscape in the region.