Türkiye has completed feasibility and design studies and launched the first construction phase of a space port in Somalia, Industry and Technology Minister Mehmet Fatih Kacır said. The project, part of Türkiye’s National Space Programme, aims to secure independent access to space and serve the global commercial launch market. Somalia was selected for its equatorial location and launch advantages, with officials saying the space port will deliver long-term economic and technological gains for both countries.

Security consultancy Vanguard Tech reported that a Chinese fishing vessel, Liao Dong Yu 578, was hijacked on January 1. The incident highlights persistent maritime risks facing commercial fishing operations in Somali waters, including piracy and illegal fishing concerns. The vessel was previously hijacked in 2024 and later released after a reported ransom, underscoring the financial and operational costs facing foreign fishing fleets operating in the region.

Türkiye and Somalia are expanding strategic cooperation through a new offshore oil and gas exploration project, with Ankara set to deploy the Cagri Bey drilling vessel to Somali waters in February. The initiative builds on a 2024 bilateral energy agreement and follows months of seismic surveys conducted by Turkish vessels. Leaders from both countries say the partnership aims to support Somalia’s development while strengthening Türkiye’s overseas energy engagement and long-term economic ties.

Turkey will deploy the Cagri Bey drilling vessel to Somalia in February for its first deepwater energy exploration project abroad, Energy Minister Alparslan Bayraktar said. The operation will target offshore areas within Somali territorial waters under a bilateral agreement signed in 2024. Turkish and Somali leaders said the project aims to support Somalia’s economic development following seismic surveys already conducted, with drilling described by Somali officials as definitive and irreversible.

Tawakal Express Chief Executive Officer Zakarie Hashi was named Best CEO in the Social Entrepreneur category at the Somali Hero Awards 2025, recognizing his leadership and social impact in the global remittance sector. Appointed CEO only months earlier, Hashi has led a technology-driven strategy focused on digital wallets, mobile applications, and strengthened compliance. Founded in 2003, Tawakal Express operates in more than 50 countries serving diaspora communities worldwide.

Somalia assumed the rotating presidency of the United Nations Security Council for January, a move officials say strengthens the country’s international standing and credibility. Somali envoy Abukar Dahir Osman said the role reflects Somalia’s commitment to multilateralism, the rule of law, and transparent governance—factors closely watched by investors and development partners. Analysts say the presidency could bolster confidence in Somalia’s economic reform agenda and support engagement with global financial institutions.

Somalia’s Presidency said international and regional backing for Somalia’s sovereignty and unity helped block efforts by Israel to recognize the self-declared Somaliland administration. Mogadishu said such recognition would violate international law, the United Nations Charter, and the principle of non-interference. The government rejected engagement with separatist entities and reaffirmed cooperation with partners to safeguard stability in the Horn of Africa and pursue peaceful, unity-preserving solutions.

Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud paid an unannounced visit to former President Sharif Sheikh Ahmed as political tensions deepen over constitutional amendments and electoral reforms. The rare meeting is seen as an attempt to ease divisions between the federal government and opposition leaders critical of recent changes expanding presidential powers and altering the electoral system. The talks come amid strained relations with federal member states and uncertainty ahead of the 2026 elections.

Tens of thousands of Somalis rallied nationwide to protest Israel’s recognition of Somaliland, calling it a violation of Somalia’s sovereignty. Demonstrations were held in Mogadishu, Baidoa, Dhusamareeb, Lasanod, and other towns. The protests coincided with President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud’s visit to Türkiye for talks with President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan. Somalia raised the issue at an emergency UN Security Council meeting, warning the move could destabilize the Horn of Africa.