President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud welcomed the Turkish seismic research vessel Oruc Reis to Mogadishu on Friday, celebrating it as a milestone in Somalia’s journey to unlock its offshore oil and gas potential. This significant arrival marks a leap forward for Somalia’s economy, with the president remarking, “This is not just a vessel; it represents our country’s leap towards energy self-sufficiency and economic prosperity.” The Oruc Reis will carry out detailed surveys of Somalia’s coastal seabed, with hopes that any oil or gas findings could fuel growth for the nation.

The vessel is part of a larger partnership between Türkiye and Somalia, which spans energy, military support, infrastructure, and humanitarian projects. While specific timelines for the exploration aren’t yet disclosed, both countries see this as an opportunity to grow together: Somalia could gain a stronger economy, and Türkiye a key energy partner in East Africa. Equipped with advanced seismic technology, Oruc Reis will provide essential data about the geological makeup of the region’s seabed, data that could be key to unlocking valuable resources.

Türkiye’s role in this exploration aligns with its broader global energy strategy, which aims to secure reliable energy sources and build stronger ties with African nations. Turkish Energy Minister Alparslan Bayraktar announced the arrival on social media, calling it a milestone in Türkiye’s expanding energy outreach. “Oruc Reis has reached its mission location after its journey across continents,” he posted, signaling Türkiye’s ambition to secure resources that reduce its reliance on global energy markets.

In today’s unpredictable energy landscape, finding new resources has become more crucial than ever. For Türkiye, this mission reduces dependence on fluctuating markets, while also signaling its intent to engage Africa in new ways. For Somalia, it offers hope for a prosperous future, building energy security and strengthening international bonds. Both nations are hopeful this collaboration will pave the way for new economic opportunities and a secure energy future.