Somalia Ministry of Fisheries and Blue Economy is reinforcing its partnership with the World Bank to accelerate progress in the country’s fisheries sector and strengthen the foundations of its blue economy.
In a recent high-level meeting, Minister of Fisheries and Blue Economy, Ahmed Hassan Aden, met with World Bank Country Manager for Somalia, Hideki Matsunaga, to review achievements under Badmaal Project and discuss future collaboration.
Progress Under Badmaal Project
Launched just a year ago, Badmaal Project is already showing positive results for Somali fishing communities.
The initiative focuses on three key areas:
- Fisheries infrastructure development by building and upgrading facilities to support fishing, storage, and processing.
- Legal and regulatory reforms by strengthening governance and creating a sustainable framework for the fisheries sector.
- Youth and women empowerment by providing opportunities and resources for coastal communities, particularly vulnerable groups, to engage in fisheries and improve their livelihoods.
According to Somalia Ministry of Fisheries and Blue Economy, the project has delivered tangible benefits, including improved access to resources for fishing communities and stronger institutional capacity to manage marine resources.
Revitalizing Somalia’s Blue Economy
Somalia has one of the longest coastlines in Africa, giving it vast potential in the fisheries sector.
However, decades of conflict and underinvestment have limited the country’s ability to fully harness this resource.
Badmaal Project is part of a broader strategy to revitalize the blue economy and ensure that coastal populations benefit from sustainable fisheries development.
The project not only strengthens food security but also creates employment opportunities, particularly for young people and women in coastal regions.
This aligns with national priorities to reduce poverty and promote inclusive economic growth.
Somalia Ministry of Fisheries and Blue Economy Commitment to Continued Partnership
During the meeting, both Minister Aden and Matsunaga emphasized the importance of maintaining a long-term partnership between Somalia Ministry of Fisheries and Blue Economy and the World Bank.
They highlighted that sustained collaboration is essential for scaling up investments, ensuring sustainability, and expanding support to Somali fishing communities.
Somalia Ministry of Fisheries Praises World Bank’s Role
Minister Aden praised the World Bank’s role in supporting Somalia’s fisheries sector, noting that continued investment and cooperation will be critical for unlocking the full potential of the blue economy.
With renewed commitment from both sides, Somalia’s fisheries sector is set to play a growing role in strengthening the national economy and improving livelihoods along its coastal regions.
