Somalia Joins 15 International Agreements and Undertakes Historic Modernization of Maritime Legal System

Mogadishu, Somalia – The Ministry of Ports and Marine Transport of the Federal Republic of Somalia announced today that Somalia has officially joined 15 international agreements and legal instruments related to the seas, a step described as the largest modernization of the maritime legal system since the country gained independence in 1960.

Although Somalia has the longest coastline on the mainland of Africa and is located at a key maritime route for international trade, it has only joined three international maritime agreements since independence.

The ministry stated that this step reflects the Federal Government's decision that Somalia will no longer be absent from the international maritime legal system. The lack of participation in these important agreements has been said to hinder Somalia's integration into the global maritime transport system, attracting foreign investment, and enhancing maritime safety.

2. Protection of the marine environment and compensation for oil pollution

3. Maritime security and legal responsibility

The ministry stated that joining these agreements is one of the ministry's top priorities and is in line with the Federal Government's National Development Plan and National Transformation Plan (NTP).

According to the press release, these agreements will significantly strengthen Somalia's water governance, international cooperation in maritime transport, capacity to address marine environmental pollution, ensure that vessels comply with international safety standards, protect the rights of fishermen, and Somalia's right to compensation in the event of accidents or oil pollution.

The modernization of these laws comes at a time when the government is investing in maritime infrastructure, including making the Port of Mogadishu operate 24 hours a day. The government is also planning to build a modern international port near Mogadishu, which will have a Special Economic Zone (SEZ), with construction expected to begin in 2026.