BERLIN — Somalia has for the first time participated in the annual summit of the International Transport Forum (ITF) in Germany, marking a significant step in the country’s efforts to strengthen its engagement in global transport and infrastructure development.
Somalia was represented by the Director General of the Ministry of Transport and Civil Aviation, Omar Afrax, who took part in high-level discussions and meetings focused on the development of air, land, and maritime transport systems.
The ITF is a global platform bringing together nearly 100 countries, international organizations, and private sector actors. It serves as a key forum for dialogue on transport policy, connectivity, and investment in infrastructure, with a particular focus on sustainable and efficient mobility systems.
During the summit, Afrax held bilateral meetings with officials from Turkey, Azerbaijan, and China, as well as senior representatives of the ITF. Discussions centered on strengthening cooperation in transport development, enhancing regional connectivity, and exploring investment opportunities in Somalia’s transport sector.
Officials highlighted Somalia’s strategic geographic position along major international shipping routes, noting its potential to become a key logistics and transport hub linking Africa, the Middle East, and Asia.
The Somali delegation also presented ongoing reforms and development plans aimed at rebuilding the country’s transport infrastructure, which has faced decades of challenges due to conflict and limited investment.
Participants at the forum welcomed Somalia’s participation and encouraged the country to deepen its engagement. According to officials, Somalia has been invited to become a full member of the ITF in the coming year—an indication of growing international confidence in its institutional progress and willingness to cooperate on global transport issues.
Analysts say Somalia’s inclusion in such international platforms reflects broader efforts by the government to re-integrate into global systems and attract foreign investment, particularly in critical sectors such as ports, aviation, and road networks.
Despite ongoing challenges, including security concerns and infrastructure gaps, the country’s participation in the ITF is seen as a positive signal of its commitment to modernization and international cooperation.
