Advancing Somalia’s Fisheries Governance: Highlights from the 5th Fisheries Management and Development Council (FMDC) Meeting.

The Fifth Meeting of the Fisheries Management and Development Council (FMDC) was successfully convened in Baidoa, Southwest State, from 22–24 February 2025, bringing together senior representatives from the Federal Government of Somalia (FGS), Federal Member States (FMS), and other key sector stakeholders.

Over three days, Ministers and Director Generals of Fisheries engaged in constructive discussions on how to advance sustainable fisheries governance, strengthen institutional coordination, and address critical challenges facing Somalia’s blue economy. The meeting highlighted the importance of unity, transparency, and accountability in building a resilient fisheries sector that contributes to livelihoods, food security, and national revenue.

Key Outcomes

1. Establishment of the Somali Fisheries Competent Authority (CA): One of the landmark achievements of the meeting was the official endorsement of the Somali Fisheries Competent Authority. This institution will serve as the central regulatory body, ensuring compliance with international standards, promoting quality assurance, and supporting Somalia’s efforts to access global seafood markets.

2. Unified Action Against IUU Fishing: Participants strongly emphasized the urgent need for coordinated efforts to combat Illegal, Unreported, and Unregulated (IUU) fishing, which continues to threaten sustainability and deprive Somali communities of billions in potential revenue. The council reaffirmed its commitment to joint surveillance, effective licensing, and strict enforcement measures to safeguard marine resources.

3. Strengthening Legal and Institutional Frameworks: Council members reviewed existing legal and regulatory gaps and discussed pathways to harmonize policies across federal and state levels. The adoption of guiding documents, such as the Terms of Reference (ToR) and Rules of Procedure (RoPs) for the Directors General Technical Working Group (DGTWG), marked an important step toward improved governance and coordination.

4. Deepening Collaboration Across Federal and State Levels: Since its establishment in 2023, the FMDC has served as the primary platform for dialogue and joint decision-making on fisheries governance in Somalia. The 5th meeting demonstrated continued political will and collaboration between the Federal Government and Member States, with leaders agreeing on the need for collective responsibility to protect and manage Somalia’s vast marine resources.

Looking Ahead

The FMDC reaffirmed its role as a cornerstone for Somalia’s fisheries management and announced that the next council meeting will take place in August 2025. This upcoming exchange will provide Somali officials with valuable insights into regional best practices while further strengthening technical and policy collaboration.

Conclusion

The 5th FMDC meeting underscored Somalia’s steady progress in building robust fisheries governance structures. By endorsing the Competent Authority, committing to stronger enforcement against IUU fishing, and adopting clear coordination mechanisms, Somalia has taken another significant step toward a more sustainable and prosperous future for its fisheries sector.