Welcome

The Centre is a social enterprise (not for profit) organization, which aims to promote effective integrated management and sustainable development in Maritime and Coastal Resources of Somalia. The Centre works with all stakeholders in the marine & coastal zone of Somalia
to achieve effective ecosystem management and sustainable
of the resources.

Somalia has the longest coastline of Africa, which is over 3,898 km long. Territorial waters of Somalia is 200 nm(nautical miles) which is measured from baseline (LMW). The length of Continental shelf is 350km

The Somali coastline contains the Indian Ocean and the Red Sea. Coastal waters are very rich in resources both living and non-living resources. Somali coastal water is recognised globally as a large marine ecosystems( that is Somali current- large marine ecosystem and Red sea-large marine ecosystem

Major seaports in Somalia are Mogadishu Port, Berbera Port, Kismayu Port and Bosaaso Port respectively. Ports are vital for the economy and security of Somalia. There are also smaller ports such as fishing and commercial ports. It is very important effective management of the port/harbour.

There are two major rivers in Somalia- Jubba and Shabelle. There are also smaller rivers in Somalia. Rivers are essential for the society for various uses. Rivers provide drinking water, habitat for the wildlife, water for farming, industry development sites, etc.

Jubba & Shabelle flooded in recent years during rainy seasons and caused loss of lives (human and livestock), damage to crops and farmland. Thus, urgent management action plans are necessary.

The current challenges include:

• Presence of foreign warships in territorial waters (200nm)
• Illegal fishing, which resulted in over-fishing
• Illegal waste dumping ( toxic and hazardous waste)
• Human trafficking
• Habitat destruction (coastal waters and coastal land)
• Coastal community safety

Therefore, the centre aims to address current issues while setting up long term strategic to safeguard and ensure sustainable development in marine environment. It will start training young Somali people for Maritime affairs, ocean and coastal science in order to manage or develop and sustain these valuable resources The centre has expertise and good network in various institutions around the world to deliver services.