A Turkish ship carrying 3,000 tons of humanitarian aid arrived at Mogadishu’s seaport on Saturday. The “Ship of Goodness” departed from Mersin, a southern province in Turkey, on 29th September. Senior Somali officials, including Deputy Prime Minister Salah Jama and Disaster Management Commissioner Mahamuud Moallim, welcomed the shipment at a ceremony at the port.
Also present were Turkey’s Ambassador to Somalia, Alper Aktas, and representatives from Turkish humanitarian agencies.
In a statement, the Somali Disaster Management Agency (SoDMA) outlined the contents of the aid, which includes food supplies, tents, and other essential items, all aimed at improving the living conditions of those in need across the country.
The Turkish Embassy in Mogadishu reiterated Turkey’s continued commitment to Somalia, stating, “As always, Turkiye will continue to extend its helping hand to the brotherly Somali people. Toward a brighter future with the brotherly Somalian people.”
Turkey has been a longstanding ally of Somalia, providing over 60,000 tons of aid since 2016. The East African nation frequently faces natural disasters, including droughts, famines, floods, and cyclones.
Beyond humanitarian aid, Turkey has also invested in Somalia’s education, infrastructure, and healthcare sectors. Additionally, Turkey operates its largest overseas military facility in Mogadishu, which trains the Somali National Army.