By HAN News Desk
MOGADISHU — Somalia’s Federal Government has sounded the alarm over what it describes as increasing illegal extraction and smuggling of the country’s natural resources, particularly mineral deposits, by both foreign and local entities.
The Ministry of Petroleum and Mineral Resources told the BBC that several companies and individuals have been operating without government approval, exploiting mineral-rich areas and transporting resources out of the country through informal and unlawful channels.
Daahir Shire Mohamed, Somalia’s Minister of Petroleum and Minerals, expressed deep concern over the growing trend, warning that the activities pose a serious threat to national sovereignty and economic stability.
“There are things happening in certain parts of the country that can no longer be ignored,” the minister said. “The resources that belong to the Somali people are being taken and traded illegally, often through individuals who have no understanding of the damage they are causing.”
He noted that the number of companies and private operators involved in illicit extraction has risen sharply in recent months, prompting the government to issue a warning to both foreign nationals and Somali citizens engaging in the practice.
Minister Daahir reiterated that under Somali law, only the federal government has the authority to regulate and approve any form of resource exploration or extraction. He emphasized that no group or individual can legally exploit national resources without a formal permit issued by the federal authorities.
The government says it is preparing stronger enforcement measures to curb the illegal trade and is urging local communities to cooperate by reporting suspicious activities. Officials warn that continued unauthorized extraction could undermine the country’s long-term economic development and deprive citizens of revenues needed to fund public services.
The Ministry called on all companies to comply with national regulations and to engage directly with the federal government if they seek legitimate exploration or mining rights.
