Turkey has reportedly started developing a rocket launch facility in Somalia, with construction beginning in December 2024, Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud revealed.
Speaking to Military Africa, Mohamud highlighted the project’s potential to generate significant revenue and job opportunities for the East African nation. While the exact location remains undisclosed, Somalia’s equatorial proximity and access to the Indian Ocean make it a suitable site for rocket launches, offering reduced energy costs and safe ocean landing zones for debris.
The launch facility is a pivotal component of Turkey’s ambitious 10-year space programme, initiated in 2021, which aims to position the country as a global space power through satellite system advancements and spaceport developments.
Beyond the space initiative, Turkey has been a major investor in Somalia, contributing to sectors such as health, education, defence and energy. Earlier in 2024, the two nations signed a deal granting Turkey 30% of Somalia’s exclusive economic zone revenue in exchange for rebuilding and equipping the Somali Navy.
Turkey’s contributions also extend to infrastructure development, including modernising Mogadishu Airport and Port, rehabilitating main roads, and enhancing public services. These investments aim to boost Somalia’s economy and security, fostering a stronger bilateral relationship.
President Mohamud said: “Somalia hosting a launchpad for Turkish satellites is even more meaningful than the billions of dollars and opportunities it will generate.”
Turkey’s partnership with Somalia strengthens its influence in the Horn of Africa while positioning Somalia as a key regional player. The relationship, rooted in historical ties dating back to the Ottoman Empire, has deepened since Turkey reopened its Mogadishu embassy in 2011.
Bilateral trade has also grown, reaching $389m in 2022, with Turkey exporting $386m worth of goods, including pasta, and Somalia exporting $2.5m, primarily in oily seeds.
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