ALBAWABA - Turkey is set to embark on its inaugural overseas deepwater energy exploration, with a drilling vessel slated for deployment in Somali waters next month, as revealed by Turkish Energy Minister Alparslan Bayraktar.
Bayraktar announced that the drilling ship Cagri Bey will head to Somalia in February to commence offshore exploration. The operation will concentrate on maritime zones along the Somali coast, though specifics regarding potential reserves or the level of investment remain undisclosed.
This initiative comes on the heels of an energy exploration agreement inked between Turkey and Somalia in 2024. Ankara aims to broaden its energy sources, lessen its dependence on imports, and intensify exploration activities both within its borders and internationally.
Turkish media outlets had earlier suggested that oil and gas exploration in Somalia might span three to five years. Turkey intends to investigate hydrocarbons in three offshore blocks and has considerably increased its deepwater exploration and drilling fleet in recent years.
Strengthening Energy Ties
Earlier this week, Bayraktar met with Somalia’s Minister of Petroleum and Mineral Resources, Tahir Shire Mohamed, to discuss bolstering bilateral energy cooperation. Their talks encompassed current hydrocarbon exploration activities, both onshore and offshore, along with operational planning for future stages.
Bayraktar's social media post highlighted Turkey's view of Somalia as a vital strategic ally in Africa. He suggested that collaboration in the hydrocarbons industry could significantly enhance their relationship.
These energy discussions took place alongside an official visit to Turkey by Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud. The Somali leader met with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan to address various strategic matters, encompassing defense, security, energy, maritime affairs, fisheries, and economic investment.
Exploration and Future Plans
At a joint press conference, Erdogan stated that cooperation with Somalia in the energy sector is advancing.
He pointed out that the Turkish seismic research vessel Oruç Reis had already spent nine months conducting geological surveys in Somali waters, covering over 4,400 square kilometers.
Erdogan stated that Turkey intends to commence full drilling operations in 2026, calling the project a landmark endeavor that could greatly aid Somalia's economic progress. He also revealed plans for a spaceport in Somalia, highlighting the expanding collaboration between the two nations, extending beyond just energy.
This planned drilling operation represents a notable advancement in Turkey's increasing involvement in offshore energy exploration and its growing economic and strategic presence in the Horn of Africa.
