On January 23, 2026, Somalia’s Council of Ministers approved a significant maritime safety agreement aimed at enhancing oversight of the nation’s maritime sector. This new agreement empowers Somalia to inspect foreign vessels, enforce international shipping standards, and safeguard its coastline. The Cabinet endorsed a Memorandum of Understanding among Port State Control (PSC) authorities in the Indian Ocean, facilitated by the Ministry of Ports and Transport, marking Somalia’s entry into a regional initiative focused on improving ship safety and environmental protection.
Minister of Ports and Transport, Abdulkadir Mohamed Nur, emphasized that the agreement would bolster cooperation and information-sharing among Indian Ocean states, thereby rebuilding trust in Somalia’s ports after years of inadequate regulation. He noted the government’s commitment to enforcing laws that prioritize national interests and ensure safe maritime operations.
Joining the Indian Ocean Port State Control framework grants Somalia the legal authority to inspect foreign-flagged vessels operating in its waters. This includes enforcing crucial international conventions, such as the Safety of Life at Sea Convention (SOLAS) and the Marine Pollution Convention (MARPOL). Officials believe this agreement will mitigate risks from substandard ships and enhance protections for seafarers.
Additionally, the Cabinet approved the Somali Postal Policy for 2025–2030, part of broader efforts to modernize public services. The maritime agreement aligns with the government’s renewed focus on Somalia’s strategic coastline, aiming to reassert sovereignty at sea and better integrate into regional and global trade networks.
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