Business
17Coverage of business, trade, investment, technology, energy, aviation, ports, markets, and economic developments across Somalia, Somaliland, Kenya, Ethiopia, Djibouti, and the global Somali economy.
Somali Elders Demand Review of DP World Port Deal as Somalia’s Third-Largest Port Shuts Down
Traditional elders in Puntland’s Bari region have called for an independent review of the DP World agreement governing Bosaso Port, while President Said Abdullahi Deni defends recent port fee increases as essential for financing expansion and modernization.
China Opens Duty-Free Market to Somali Fish as Somalia Secures Landmark Trade Deal
Somalia has secured duty-free access for fish exports to China after signing a landmark trade agreement expected to boost seafood exports, attract investment and strengthen the country’s blue economy.
Somalia’s Youth Need Skills, Not Just Degrees, to Unlock the Country’s Future
With nearly 75% of Somalia’s population under 35, the country’s greatest asset risks becoming its biggest challenge. Mohamed Dahir Farah argues that reforming universities, expanding technical education, and preparing young people for emerging industries such as oil and gas is essential to creating jobs and unlocking Somalia’s future.
Somalia’s Third-Largest Port Shutdown Enters Tenth Day as Puntland Tax Dispute Disrupts Trade
Bosaso Port, Somalia’s third-largest commercial gateway, has remained closed for ten days as traders protest new Puntland taxes and DP World port fees, disrupting trade, closing markets, and raising fears of shortages and wider economic damage across northeastern Somalia.
Likenew Launches Somalia’s First 24/7 Smart Lockers
Likenew Smart Laundry has launched Somalia’s first 24/7 Smart Lockers, allowing customers to drop off and collect laundry anytime while bringing secure, technology-driven laundry services closer to homes and businesses across Mogadishu.
Djibouti Ranked Africa’s Third-Best Port as Mogadishu Overtakes Mombasa, Dar es Salaam
Djibouti has been ranked Africa’s third-best performing port in the World Bank’s 2025 Container Port Performance Index, while Mogadishu Port climbed ahead of Mombasa and Dar es Salaam, highlighting the growing competitiveness of Horn of Africa maritime hubs.
Somali Region Secures Third-Largest Share of Ethiopia's Record $14.5 Billion Budget
Ethiopia's Somali Regional State has secured the third-largest regional allocation under the country's record 2.34 trillion birr ($14.5 billion) federal budget. The region will receive 51.9 billion birr ($322 million), ranking behind Oromia and Amhara.
Somalia Warns Citizens as Xenophobic Violence Threatens Somali Businesses in South Africa
Somalia’s embassy in South Africa has urged citizens to exercise caution as xenophobic violence spreads across several cities, putting Somali-owned businesses at risk amid rising attacks targeting foreign nationals.
Federal Raids Target Minnesota Businesses Amid Expanding Fraud Investigation
Federal authorities carried out coordinated raids across Minnesota on Tuesday, executing 22 search warrants at businesses, childcare centers and homes as part of a widening fraud investigation.
Starlink Comes to Somalia, but Regional Tensions Lurk Beneath the Digital Promise
Starlink’s arrival in Somalia marks a major step toward improving internet access in one of the world’s least connected countries. However, the rollout has also triggered political tensions with Somaliland and raised broader concerns over security and regional stability.
Too Many Banks, Too Little Capital: Why Somalia Needs Banking Reform
A decade of rapid expansion has transformed Somalia’s banking sector, but weak capitalisation, market fragmentation and low public trust threaten its future. Mohamed Ibrahim analyses how the industry can build on its current growth to ensure long-term stability and growth.
France seeks stronger African ties through Nairobi summit
France is hosting a major Africa-focused summit in Nairobi this week as it looks to strengthen political and economic partnerships across the continent, particularly in East Africa following recent diplomatic tensions in the Sahel region.
Somali Future Council condemns arrest of Bajaj drivers and journalists over fuel price protests
“It is unacceptable that young people who are creating jobs and contributing to the country’s economy are suppressed through arrest or force,” the statement said.
Kenya Airways cancels Nairobi–New York flights after severe U.S. winter storm
Kenya Airways apologised for the inconvenience caused and asked customers for patience and understanding as the situation evolves.
Somali civil aviation agency suspends aircraft over safety violations after runway incident
The Somalia Civil Aviation Authority (SCAA) announced the decision following what it described as safety compliance checks on multiple operators.
Starlink coming to Somalia, but regional tensions lurk
The Somali government’s recent approval of a licence for US-based Starlink to operate in Somalia represents a milestone, as one of the few foreign companies set to begin operations in the country, but what does this mean for current geopolitical tensions?
Russia deepens influence in Africa with strategic partnership in Somalia
Russia's diplomatic efforts in Africa have reached new heights. Moscow is now strengthening its ties with Somalia, a strategically important country in the Horn of Africa. Mikhail Bogdanov, Russia's Deputy Foreign Minister for the Middle East and African Countries, arrived in Mogadishu on Saturday for a high-level visit.