Introduction
The Turkish-Somalia oil exploration deal has raised significant concerns about the ethical, political, and economic implications of such agreements in crisis-stricken nations. This article examines the deal as a case of potential exploitation, looting, and subjugation orchestrated by Turkey’s Justice and Development Party (AKP) leadership under President Recep Tayyip Erdogan. The focus is on how Somalia’s prolonged security, governance, and economic crises have created vulnerabilities that external powers, such as Turkey, could exploit.
Background
Somalia, a nation ravaged by decades of civil war, terrorism, and political instability, is rich in untapped natural resources, including oil. In recent years, Turkey has established itself as a key ally of Somalia, investing heavily in infrastructure, security, and humanitarian aid. However, critics argue that these investments mask ulterior motives aimed at securing economic and strategic gains. In 2020, Somalia’s federal government signed an agreement with Turkish petroleum companies, granting them rights to explore oil in Somali waters. While this partnership was celebrated by some as a step towards economic recovery, others viewed it as a neo-imperialist maneuver designed to exploit Somalia’s resources under the guise of bilateral cooperation.
