Somalia, 29 September 2025 – Somalia will begin oil drilling in the coming months as part of a broader push to strengthen its economic independence, President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud told lawmakers at the opening of the 7th session of the Federal Parliament.
The President described the start of oil exploration as a “new chapter” in Somalia’s economic history, noting that international surveys have confirmed the country holds some of the world’s largest untapped reserves.
“In the coming months, God willing, Somalia will begin oil drilling,” the President said, stressing that oil exploitation will be coupled with the development of national infrastructure, including roads, ports, airports, and even a planned spaceport.
The announcement comes less than a year after Somalia secured full debt relief, which the President said paved the way for the government to trade with global partners on stronger terms.
He emphasized that the country is now paying the salaries of over 100,000 public employees, soldiers, and teachers directly from domestic tax revenues.
The government has urged citizens and businesses to comply with tax obligations, which he said form the backbone of statehood.
Oil revenues, once realized, are expected to provide a major boost to national income and reduce reliance on foreign aid.
While officials see oil exploration as a path to prosperity, it has also raised concerns about governance, environmental pollution, and equitable resource sharing among federal member states.
Analysts warn that without robust transparency and accountability, oil wealth could fuel political disputes rather than stability.
Still, the President framed the drilling announcement as part of Somalia’s long-term vision to transform itself from a fragile state into a regional economic actor.
