The International Crisis Group (ICG) called on the European Union to take a more active role in resolving Somalia’s political deadlock over the 2026 elections. The Brussels-based think tank warned that disputes between the federal government, opposition, and member states could stall the democratic transition and allow Al-Shabab to regain territory. ICG recommended EU-led mediation, reviewing existing support programs, and strengthening Somali security institutions at both federal and state levels.

Global port operator DP World launched a new shipping route linking Jebel Ali Port in the UAE with Berbera Port in Somalia, operating every nine days to strengthen Gulf–East Africa trade. The $440 million Berbera investment includes a modern container terminal and deeper berths, positioning the port as a key regional hub and an alternative to Djibouti. The route is expected to boost cargo flows to Ethiopia and enhance Somalia’s role in regional maritime logistics.

Somalia’s newly established North Eastern State announced its first 21-member cabinet under President Abdiqadir Ahmed Ali. The appointments cover key sectors, including justice, interior, finance, security, health, and education, with one woman among the ministers. Several appointees are former Puntland officials. The cabinet will assume office upon publication in the Official Gazette, and the swearing-in is scheduled in Las Anod, the regional capital.

Somali Foreign Minister Abdusalam Abdi met Egyptian counterpart Badr Abdelatty in Aswan to discuss strengthening bilateral ties and Egypt’s planned troop deployment to the African Union Support and Stabilization Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM). Abdelatty reaffirmed Cairo’s commitment to supporting Somalia’s security, unity, and institution-building, and called for the swift completion of deployment procedures. Both ministers agreed to deepen cooperation in counterterrorism, trade, and investment and to convene a second Egypt–Somalia Business Forum soon.

Somalia’s Finance Minister, Biixi Iman Egeh, urged global lenders to prioritize investment and job creation over traditional aid during the 2025 World Bank and IMF meetings. He said Africa must adapt to a shift from aid to investment-focused partnerships by creating favorable legal and economic conditions. Egeh highlighted Somalia’s financial reforms, private sector growth, and efforts to integrate into the global financial system through the Horn of Africa Initiative and collaboration with development partners.

Türkiye’s security cooperation with Somalia expanded as Somali police officers trained in Ankara assumed key national security roles. Turkish Interior Ministry Counselor Col. Tansu Utku said the program had strengthened Somalia’s law enforcement capacity since 2012 through training at Türkiye’s Police and Gendarmerie Academies. Dozens of officers graduated, improving counterterrorism and operational capabilities. The partnership also included migration management cooperation and continued institutional support for Somalia’s police reform.

Somalia is set to launch its first-ever securities exchange, a milestone expected to transform the country’s investment landscape. National Securities Exchange of Somalia (NSES) CEO Yasin M. Ibar said the market would attract diaspora capital, strengthen governance, and provide businesses with new financing opportunities. Designed as a self-regulatory institution aligned with regional exchanges, NSES will enable cross-listings, digital trading, and Shariah-compliant products, positioning Somalia as an emerging financial hub in East Africa’s growing capital market.

Somalia’s Federal Parliament ratified the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) agreement, advancing regional and diplomatic integration. The motion passed with 145 votes in favor and one against during a session chaired by Speaker Sheikh Adan Madoobe. Lawmakers described the decision as a milestone for Somalia’s role in continental cooperation and in strengthening political and economic ties within the African Union.