Somali Network
Newsletter | April 2026

Summary

This briefing highlights major security, political, economic, and humanitarian developments affecting Somalia, including ongoing operations against Al-Shabaab, preparations for historic first offshore oil drilling, progress on electoral timelines, and persistent health and humanitarian challenges.

Drawing on credible recent reports, it is intended to support Members of Parliament and Peers in raising informed oral and written questions, contributing to parliamentary scrutiny, and engaging with the Government on the UK’s role in supporting Somalia’s sovereignty, stability, economic potential, and democratic transition.

Security Developments

Somalia Reports Major Operations Against Al-Shabaab
Somalia’s government and armed forces, supported by international partners including US AFRICOM, continue to conduct operations targeting Al-Shabaab leaders and fighters in regions such as Jubaland, Bay, Bakool, and Middle Juba. Recent strikes have eliminated senior figures and disrupted planned attacks, with reports of weapons seizures. While the group has shown resilience through territorial shifts and evolving tactics in central and southern areas, these operations represent important steps in degrading its capabilities and enhancing security for civilians affected by long-term conflict. Sustained efforts are seen as vital for broader stability.

Oil & Gas

Somalia Set for Historic First Offshore Oil Drilling
Somalia is advancing toward its first-ever offshore oil drilling, with a Turkish government-owned drillship (Çağrı Bey) arriving in Somali waters in April 2026 to begin operations at sites like Curad-1. This milestone, following successful seismic surveys, is viewed as a transformative opportunity to unlock substantial potential reserves, attract foreign investment, generate revenue for infrastructure and services, and create jobs. If well-managed with strong governance, the project could significantly boost economic development and signal growing stability and ambition on the international stage.

Humanitarian Development

WHO Highlights Ongoing Health Challenges in Somalia
The World Health Organization continues to draw attention to persistent health issues in Somalia, including outbreaks of cholera/AWD, diphtheria, measles, and malaria, compounded by malnutrition, displacement, conflict, and climate shocks. Millions require urgent access to healthcare, clean water, and nutrition support. Humanitarian partners and local organizations are delivering essential services and strengthening response capacity despite funding constraints, underscoring both the scale of needs and the resilience of affected communities and responders.

Supporting Somali Girls Through Community-Based Programmes
Community initiatives across Somalia are expanding access to nutrition, menstrual health education, wellbeing support, and empowerment programs for adolescent girls. These efforts provide critical information, practical resources, and opportunities for personal development, helping young women build confidence and contribute to stronger families and communities while laying foundations for improved gender outcomes in the next generation.

Strengthening Somalia's Federalism

Northeastern State Strengthens Its Position Within Somalia's Federal System
Recent developments, including the formal recognition of the Northeastern State, reflect ongoing efforts to consolidate federal structures and enhance regional integration. The administration has engaged with constitutional processes and emphasized commitments to democratic governance, rule of law, and cooperation between federal and state levels. These steps aim to build more inclusive and stable institutions, even amid tensions with some federal member states over elections and reforms.

About The Somali Network

The Somali Network is a group of young British Somalis working to accelerate Somalia’s development by strengthening links between governments, NGOs and the Somali diaspora.

For meetings or further information, please contact: info@somalinetwork.org.uk.

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Newsletter | March 2026

Summary

This edition of the newsletter highlights key security, political, humanitarian, and diplomatic developments in Somalia in March 2026. It covers progress in constitutional reforms and governance, improvements in security and public life in Mogadishu, the deepening humanitarian crisis caused by drought and food insecurity, and Somalia’s response to reports of foreign military activity in Somaliland.

Drawing on credible reporting and sources on the ground, this briefing aims to provide readers with a concise overview of issues affecting Somalia’s stability, sovereignty, and development, including the role of international partners in supporting governance, security, and humanitarian responses.

Security, Confidence & Everyday Life in Somalia

Improved Security Conditions Enabling Political Processes
Authorities maintained tight security in Mogadishu during the recent constitutional vote, allowing parliamentary proceedings to take place without major disruption. Officials reassured citizens that daily life could continue safely, reflecting improved coordination and growing state capacity-an important signal of stability in a capital that has historically faced insecurity.
Read more: https://www.the-star.co.ke/news/africa/2026-03-04-somalia-heightens-security-in-mogadishu-as-parliament-passes-new-constitution

Signs of Improving International Confidence in Somalia
The newly approved constitutional framework is expected to boost investor confidence by addressing long-standing uncertainties around governance. Reforms targeting resource management, revenue sharing, and institutional clarity are likely to attract international investment and unlock development opportunities, signaling increasing economic optimism and institutional maturity.
Read more: https://www.dawan.africa/news/somali-president-newly-approved-constitution-will-bring-political-and-economic-stability

Continued Progress in Security and Anti-Extremism Efforts
Recent reporting from the Associated Press highlights ongoing improvements in security, particularly in Mogadishu. These include a reduction in large-scale attacks and stronger intelligence coordination, alongside conditions that are enabling businesses to reopen and daily activities to resume-gradual but significant gains for long-term stability and governance.
Read more: https://apnews.com/article/64cfbc1e76f2eb6bf9556332fae7f6f7

Growing Resilience and Normalcy in Urban Life
As security conditions improve, parts of Mogadishu are seeing a cautious return to normal life. Cafés and businesses are reopening, public activity is increasing, and residents are experiencing a more stable urban environment-clear signs that broader security improvements are beginning to translate into tangible benefits for everyday life.
Read more: https://apnews.com/article/64cfbc1e76f2eb6bf9556332fae7f6f7

Humanitarian Development

Worsening Hunger Crisis Across Somalia
Somalia’s humanitarian crisis continues to deepen, with an estimated 6.5 million people facing severe food insecurity. Nearly 1.8 million young children are acutely malnourished, many at risk of life-threatening conditions. Prolonged drought, loss of livestock, and ongoing instability have pushed communities to the brink, with families struggling daily to secure enough food. Aid agencies warn that without urgent support, conditions will deteriorate further—leaving millions reliant on increasingly limited assistance.

A Land Without Water: The Ongoing Drought Crisis
Across Somalia, access to water has become a daily struggle for survival. Years of drought have dried up wells and displaced communities, forcing families to travel long distances in search of water. With crops failing and livestock dying, hunger is rising alongside thirst. Aid organisations caution that millions remain at risk, while funding shortfalls continue to limit the scale of response. The crisis is not only environmental but deeply human, affecting livelihoods, health, and long-term stability.

Response to ‘Somaliland’ Recognition

Concerns Over Potential Foreign Military Presence in Somaliland
Somalia has issued a strong warning against reported plans to establish a foreign military base in the breakaway region of Somaliland, emphasising its commitment to protecting national sovereignty. Officials have cautioned that any such move could risk further destabilisation and draw the region into broader geopolitical tensions. The federal government maintains that all national security decisions must be coordinated through Mogadishu, reinforcing its position on territorial integrity as Somaliland continues to pursue separate international engagement.