Somali Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development, Said Hussein Iyd, has invited Turkish fishermen to explore investment opportunities in Somalia’s fisheries sector, highlighting its immense potential.
Speaking to Anadolu Agency during the Türkiye-Africa Agriculture Ministers Meeting and Agribusiness Forum in Antalya, Minister Iyd described the event as highly productive for Somalia.
“Africa is a continent rich in resources,” Iyd emphasized. “Turkey is a highly developed country in agriculture. The partnership between Turkey and Africa is a win-win situation, and we are proud to be a part of it.”
Iyd noted that trade between Somalia and Turkey is growing, reaching nearly $200 million last year. He expressed optimism that this volume would continue to increase. He also underlined the importance of Turkish Airlines launching cargo flights to Somalia, which is expected to further boost agricultural trade between the two countries.
A Call to Turkish Fishermen
Highlighting Somalia’s potential for foreign investors, Iyd pointed specifically to the fisheries sector.
“Somalia has the longest coastline in Africa and is rich in fish resources,” he said. “We have the opportunity to produce a large amount of fish. We invite Turkish fishermen to come to Somalia and catch the fish before they grow old.”
When asked about Turkey’s agricultural land lease projects in Sudan, Iyd responded: “All ideas are on the table. During Somali President Mohamed Abdullahi Farmaajo’s visit to Ankara, we held discussions with the Turkish Minister of Agriculture regarding such projects.”
The remarks reflect Somalia’s commitment to deepening cooperation with Turkey across key sectors including trade, agriculture, and fisheries.