Turkey has made a landmark oil discovery in East Africa, revealing that two of the three exploration blocks it operates in the region have uncovered significant, commercially viable crude oil reserves. With an estimated potential of up to 20 billion barrels, the find marks a pivotal moment in Turkey’s expanding energy footprint across the Horn of Africa.

According to The Somali Guardian, while the third block remains under evaluation, officials anticipate confirming its commercial viability by August.

This development follows a strategic oil agreement signed in March 2024 between Turkey and Somalia. The bilateral deal grants Turkey sweeping rights to oil and gas production, cementing long-term energy cooperation between the two nations.

Under the terms, Turkey is entitled to up to 90% of oil and gas output—well above typical international standards. Moreover, Turkish companies are exempt from paying traditional upfront costs such as signature bonuses and administrative fees. The arrangement allows Turkey to export its share of hydrocarbons freely and repatriate all revenue without local oversight or restrictions.

Somalia’s estimated 30 billion barrels of offshore oil and 6 billion cubic meters of natural gas have made it an attractive frontier for global energy players. However, the agreement’s generous terms for Turkey have raised eyebrows, sparking concerns about whether Somalia will truly benefit from the exploitation of its vast natural resources.

Further controversy stems from Turkey’s ability to transfer its rights to third parties without needing to establish a physical presence in Somalia—a provision critics say undermines national sovereignty and transparency.

Despite the backlash, Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud has defended the agreement, calling it a breakthrough for a country long sidelined from global energy development due to decades of instability.

“Oil exploration is already happening offshore,” he said. “Now, with this deal, exploration will begin along Somalia’s coastal areas.”

Mohamud added that this is not about favoring Turkey.  “Rather, Turkey is the first to step up and show real commitment to invest,” he said.

Somalia before the collapse of central government in 1991 had exploration  deals with major international oil and gas firms. But lost those deals because of political instability.

With this deal with Turkey, the country  is now positioning itself for a potential return to the global energy stage. Still, much hinges on how fairly the benefits of this deal are shared in the years ahead.