ANKARA/MOGADISHU — Turkey’s parliament has approved a two-year extension of its military deployment in Somalia, allowing Turkish forces to continue their security mission in the country until July 2028.
The extension strengthens the long-standing defence partnership between Turkey and Somalia, with Turkish forces continuing to support counterterrorism operations, military training, anti-piracy efforts, and broader security cooperation with Somali authorities.
Turkey’s military presence in Somalia is centred around training and strengthening the capacity of the Somali National Army, particularly as Mogadishu continues its fight against Al-Shabaab militants, who remain a major security threat in parts of the country.
The decision comes as Somalia works to build a more capable and independent security sector, while also addressing challenges linked to maritime security in the Indian Ocean and Gulf of Aden, including illegal fishing and piracy risks.
Turkey has become one of Somalia’s closest international partners over the past decade, providing military assistance, humanitarian support, infrastructure projects, and development cooperation. Ankara’s military training facility in Mogadishu, known as TURKSOM, has played a key role in training Somali security personnel.
Somali officials have welcomed Turkey’s continued support, describing the partnership as important for strengthening national defence capabilities and improving stability.
The extension also reflects Turkey’s broader strategic interests in the Horn of Africa, where Ankara has expanded its diplomatic, economic, and security engagement in recent years.
Analysts say the continued Turkish mission will remain a significant part of Somalia’s security strategy as the country prepares its forces to take greater responsibility for national security and counterterrorism operations.
