By Zakaria Hassan - Reporter
Somalia, 21 November 2025 — Somalia’s Ministry of Petroleum and Minerals has revealed regions where illegal mineral extraction is taking place, warning that unlicensed mining continues to threaten the country's security.
The Minister of Petroleum and Mineral Resurces Dahir Shire Mohamed said the government has verified reports of unauthorised mining in Awdal, Sanaag, Bari, the Golis Mountains, Woqooyi Galbeed and other northern regions. He also confirmed that illegal sand extraction is widespread in Banaadir and Lower Shabelle.
“We are fully aware of these operations. Illegal mining is ongoing in Borama, Sanaag, Awdal, the Golis Mountains, Bari, and even in Banaadir and Lower Shabelle where unlicensed sand extraction is happening. This kind of activity also damages the environment,” Minister Dahir said in an interview aired on Somali National Television on Thursday night.
The minister warned that such operations have severe consequences, including environmental degradation, safety hazards for local communities and the potential financing of unregulated or criminal networks.
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According to the ministry, the illegal mining is being carried out by unknown individuals, including foreign nationals, without any coordination with or approval from the federal government.
On 17 November, the ministry issued a public advisory stating that all agreements related to petroleum and mineral resources fall exclusively under the authority of the Federal Government of Somalia. It said any person or entity involved in unauthorised extraction would face legal prosecution.
Authorities said investigations are ongoing to identify individuals and groups behind these operations, and legal action will be taken once sufficient evidence is gathered.
The ministry emphasised that it remains committed to regulating the mineral sector, safeguarding natural resources and preventing activities that harm Somalia’s environment and national interests.
