In a significant boost to the nation’s energy ambitions, Somaliland’s Minister of Energy and Minerals, Honorable Ahmed Jama Barre, has revealed plans for oil exploration companies to begin drilling wells starting in early 2027, with some operations potentially advancing to 2026.
The announcement highlights ongoing preparations, including contracts awarded to import drilling rigs and essential equipment into the country.
“There is great hope that the drilling of Somaliland’s oil wells will begin at the start of the year 2027, and some may even start earlier during 2026,” Minister Barre stated. “The oil exploration companies have now awarded contracts to bring rigs and equipment into the country to commence the oil well drilling.”
Somaliland has long been eyed for its hydrocarbon potential, with geological similarities to productive basins in Yemen and historical oil seeps indicating a working petroleum system. Major players include UK-based Genel Energy, which holds operatorship in the promising SL10B/13 block in partnership with Taiwan’s CPC Corporation (through its subsidiary OPIC Somaliland Corporation).
Recent updates from partnerships suggest momentum: Taiwan-Somaliland collaborations have targeted early 2026 drilling in certain blocks, aligning with government efforts to accelerate timelines despite company projections leaning toward 2027.
The minister’s optimistic outlook comes amid broader efforts to attract investment in Somaliland’s largely unexplored onshore basins, estimated to hold billions of barrels in prospective resources.
If successful, oil production could transform Somaliland’s economy, currently reliant on livestock exports, and support infrastructure development in regions like the port city of Berbera.
The government continues negotiations with international partners to ensure security, environmental standards, and equitable benefits for local communities.
This development underscores Somaliland’s push for economic self-reliance and international partnerships in the energy sector.