Kani Torun, expected to be appointed as Turkey’s ambassador to Mogadishu, stated in an interview with Anadolu Agency that he plans to begin his mission as soon as possible after Eid al-Fitr. “We are not going there to do temporary work, but to implement lasting solutions. We must move beyond simple aid distribution; just handing out ready-made food is not a solution but part of the problem. We need to help these people become self-sufficient,” he said.
Torun emphasized the urgency of ending the civil war and working toward a stable political structure in Somalia. He pointed out that although there is currently no embassy building, a 100-acre plot of land has been allocated to Turkey, where an embassy residence and support facilities will be built within six months.
He highlighted the local population’s openness toward Turkey: “Because of the sympathy for Turks and feelings of Muslim brotherhood, they welcomed us with open arms. Western organizations, even if they wanted to, cannot currently operate there.”
Torun explained that while initial aid is critical to address hunger and sickness, the priority must quickly shift to enabling Somalis to support themselves. “Only then can we make real progress. Simply distributing food forever will achieve nothing,” he stressed.
Regarding security and infrastructure, Torun noted the airport’s poor condition and the dangerous road between the airport and city, saying these must be addressed immediately. He also outlined plans for permanent housing projects, water infrastructure, and support for livestock and agriculture to help Somalis rebuild their livelihoods.
Finally, Torun called for prayers from the Turkish people, acknowledging the challenges ahead: “We are going on a difficult mission to a challenging place, but we will do our utmost to help Somalia rise again.”