Somalia Launches Maritime Rescue Coordination Centre to Enhance Sea Safety and Emergency Response

The Federal Government of Somalia recently inaugurated the Maritime Rescue Coordination Centre (MRCC) at the Somali Police Force’s Department of Coast Guard headquarters in Mogadishu Port. This milestone development signifies a significant advancement in enhancing maritime safety and bolstering Somalia’s ability to respond to emergencies at sea. The establishment of the MRCC was made possible through the support of EUCAP Somalia, the EU’s civilian crisis management mission deployed in Somalia. The MRCC is designed to provide round-the-clock Search and Rescue (SAR) services across Somalia’s maritime domain, equipped with up-to-date surveillance capabilities provided by EUCAP Somalia.

Under the authority of the Minister of Port and Marine Transport, the MRCC will act as the central coordinating hub for SAR operations, working closely with the Somali Police Force Department of Coast Guard rescue operations team. EUCAP Somalia’s assistance extends beyond equipment provision, as the Mission has also played a crucial role in delivering integrated training to Somali personnel to effectively operate and manage the MRCC. This initiative aims not only to protect the waters but also to safeguard the livelihoods of those reliant on the sea for sustenance and commerce.

The MRCC is expected to be fully operational by the end of the year after the completion of equipment installation. This achievement aligns with EUCAP’s broader objective of enhancing Somalia’s maritime safety and security while supporting the Federal Government’s initiatives to establish sustainable maritime infrastructure and legal frameworks. The MRCC will play a pivotal role in supporting the Federal Government’s Information Sharing Network (ISN), contributing to a comprehensive maritime picture and reinforcing regional and international maritime safety and security frameworks.

The inauguration event brought together representatives from the Federal Government of Somalia, including Hon. Hirsi Jama Ganni, State Minister of the Office of the Prime Minister, along with other key officials and members of the international community. This gathering demonstrated a shared commitment to improving maritime safety and protecting lives at sea. The MRCC initiative is supported by the EU’s Red Sea Programme, the Djibouti Code of Conduct, and other regional efforts focused on enhancing governance and the rule of law at sea. For further inquiries, contact press@eucap-som.eu or visit www.eeas.europa.eu/eucap-som.

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