There is a Somali proverb that says, “Saxiibka dhabta ahi waa midka maalmaha adag kula qaybsaday,” which loosely translates to, “A true friend is the one who stands by you in your darkest times.” This sentiment perfectly encapsulates the enduring relationship between Türkiye and Somalia—a bond that has lasted for centuries and continues to flourish in a variety of fields. Türkiye, with its deep historical ties to Somalia, has become an indispensable ally to the Somali people, offering unwavering support through times of conflict, humanitarian crises, and rebuilding efforts. This friendship, dating back to the Ottoman Empire, remains a model of international cooperation.
Humanitarian assistance and diplomatic breakthrough
The most significant chapter in the recent history of Türkiye-Somalia relations began in 2011, when Somalia was reeling from a devastating famine and brutal internal conflict. The Horn of Africa was experiencing one of the worst droughts in recorded history, which led to widespread famine that claimed over 250,000 lives and displaced more than one million people. In the face of such adversity, much of the international community was slow to respond, but Türkiye was the first country to offer significant support.
At that critical juncture, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, then Prime Minister, made a historic visit to Mogadishu, becoming the first non-African head of state in 21 years to visit the capital of Somalia. His visit not only brought global attention to the crisis but also broke longstanding perceptions that Somalia was too dangerous for high-profile visits. Erdoğan’s actions sent a strong message of solidarity, galvanizing other countries and organizations to follow suit with their own aid efforts. Following the visit, the Turkish Red Crescent took a leading role in managing Rajo Camp in Mogadishu, providing shelter and basic necessities to thousands of displaced individuals. Erdoğan’s diplomatic breakthrough also led to the reopening of the Turkish Embassy in Mogadishu, which had been closed for over 20 years, marking the beginning of a new era in diplomatic relations between the two nations.
Growing economic and Trade ties
Since 2011, Türkiye has been one of Somalia’s most committed economic partners. Turkish companies have made considerable investments in Somalia, particularly in critical infrastructure sectors, including the management of Mogadishu’s seaport and airport. These investments have provided a much-needed boost to Somalia’s economy and helped create a more stable and functional national infrastructure. Somali entrepreneurs have also found new opportunities in Türkiye, with many establishing businesses in Istanbul and other Turkish cities.
Türkiye’s assistance in rebuilding Somalia’s infrastructure is a cornerstone of its partnership. Turkish companies have been involved in the construction of vital administrative buildings, including the Somali Parliament and Senate buildings, as well as Somalia’s largest hospital, named after President Erdoğan. Turkish contractors have also been instrumental in constructing key roads, such as the Afgoye and Bal’ad roads, which are crucial for connecting Somalia’s regions and fostering economic activity. Despite significant risks—including the tragic loss of many Turkish nationals during these projects—Türkiye has remained steadfast in its commitment to Somalia’s recovery.
Trade between the two nations has steadily increased, with bilateral trade reaching $280 million (TL 2.44 billion) in 2020.
Turkish companies have made substantial investments in Somalia, totaling over $100 million, and iconic Turkish brands such as Enza Home are now present in the Somali market, providing high-quality products to Somali consumers. Additionally, Ziraat Katılım, Türkiye’s largest state-owned bank, has explored the possibility of opening a branch in Somalia, indicating the growing economic integration between the two nations.
Education and human capital development
Perhaps one of the most enduring aspects of Türkiye’s relationship with Somalia is its investment in education. Following Erdoğan’s historic visit in 2011, the Turkish government launched scholarship programs that have provided thousands of Somali students with opportunities to study in Türkiye. Over 9,000 Somali students have benefited from these scholarships, many of whom have returned to Somalia to contribute to the country’s development in fields such as medicine, engineering, education, and governance. This investment in Somalia’s human capital is crucial for the long-term development of the country, as these educated individuals are playing a vital role in rebuilding Somalia’s institutions and infrastructure.
Security and defense cooperation
Türkiye’s role in Somalia extends beyond economic and humanitarian assistance to include defense and security cooperation. In 2017, Türkiye launched a military training program to enhance the capabilities of the Somali National Army. The establishment of the TURKSOM Military Training Base has allowed Turkish instructors to provide training to Somali forces, helping them develop the skills necessary to maintain security and stability in the region. Additionally, Turkish support has extended to specialized Somali police units, such as Haramcad and Gorgor, which are crucial in counterterrorism and maintaining public order.
Unlike many Western donors, who often tie aid to strict conditions, Türkiye has provided direct and largely unconditional support to Somalia’s government. Since 2012, Türkiye has consistently supplied budgetary support, which has helped Somalia stabilize and strengthen its governance structures.
Aviation and International Connectivity
Another important milestone in the Türkiye-Somalia relationship was the launch of direct flights by Turkish Airlines to Mogadishu in 2012. As the first international carrier to operate flights to the Somali capital in over two decades, Turkish Airlines played a significant role in breaking Somalia’s long-standing isolation from the global community. This development not only fostered trade and business opportunities but also signaled to the world that Somalia was once again open for international collaboration.
The increased connectivity provided by Turkish Airlines has had a profound impact on Somalia’s economy and international standing, with the airline offering reliable and affordable flights for Somali citizens, businesspeople, and tourists.
Charity and Aid Initiatives from TIKA
The Turkish Cooperation and Coordination Agency (TIKA) has also played an instrumental role in strengthening the bond between the two nations. TIKA has undertaken numerous aid and development initiatives in Somalia, including infrastructure projects, healthcare programs, and vocational training programs. These efforts have had a significant impact on Somalia’s recovery, providing much-needed resources and expertise to local communities.
Diplomatic and Strategic Milestones
Beyond humanitarian aid, Türkiye has consistently worked to elevate Somalia’s diplomatic standing on the international stage. Türkiye has hosted numerous Somalia-related summits, including the London Somali Summit in 2012, and the Istanbul Somali Conference in 2013. These high-level meetings have focused on facilitating international cooperation and supporting Somalia’s long-term development, including efforts to address security, governance, and humanitarian needs.
Recent Developments and Future Prospects
In 2024, a major defense and economic cooperation agreement was signed between the Somali Cabinet and Türkiye, which aims to modernize and equip Somalia’s naval forces. This agreement, along with ongoing talks about a potential spaceport in Somalia and the exploration of oil and gas reserves off its coast, underscores the growing strategic importance of the Türkiye-Somalia relationship. Turkish Petroleum Corporation (TPAO) has been conducting seismic surveys off the Somali coast, positioning Somalia as an important player in global energy production.
The construction of a Turkish rocket launch facility in Somalia marks another exciting development in the relationship. If completed, this facility could serve as a crucial hub for Türkiye’s expanding aerospace ambitions and provide Somalia with new opportunities for technological and scientific advancement.
Enduring solidarity and mutual benefit.
The partnership between Türkiye and Somalia has proven to be one of enduring solidarity and mutual benefit. From humanitarian aid and military cooperation to trade, education, and infrastructure development, Türkiye has been a true friend to Somalia through both good and difficult times. As Somalia continues to rebuild and strengthen its institutions, Türkiye remains an essential ally, offering unwavering support for the country’s journey toward stability and prosperity. As both nations continue to deepen their cooperation in a wide range of sectors, the future looks bright for their enduring partnership—one that embodies the true meaning of friendship and solidarity.
