SOMALIA STARTS SHIP REGISTRY & FLAG SAIL

Somalia has taken a crucial step towards ensuring vessels bearing its flag sail internationally with the signing of an agreement to establish the Somali Ship Registry system.

The Memorandum of Understanding was signed between Somalia’s Ministry of Ports and Marine Transport and a privately owned company, Somali Ship Register Limited, on Sunday in Mogadishu.

In a statement, the ministry said the partnership aims to create a "formal national ship registration framework, enabling vessels to operate internationally under the Somali flag."

It emphasised that this initiative represents a "decisive step" towards the development and modernisation of Somalia’s maritime sector to boost its presence in global shipping.

According to a statement released by the ministry, the agreement was signed by Minister Nur and Çağdaş Oykun Saltaş, General Manager of Somali Ship Register Limited.

"Today, I had the honour of signing an important Memorandum of Understanding to establish Somalia’s ship registry, to offer Somali flag to ships, through a privately owned company. This milestone reflects our strong commitment to advancing and modernising our maritime sector," Somalia’s Minister of Ports and Marine Transport, Abdulkadir Mohamed Nur, said after the signing ceremony.

"Through this agreement, we are opening new doors for investment, job creation, and improved efficiency by leveraging private sector expertise. It is a strategic step towards strengthening governance and enhancing Somalia’s competitiveness in the global shipping industry," he added.

Minister Nur expressed confidence that the move will "support sustainable economic growth and position Somalia as a credible and reliable maritime hub. We remain committed to building a stronger future for our nation."

Somalia has been making efforts in recent years to increase its presence on the global stage as it rebuilds from years of armed conflict and natural disasters.

MAYURE NAREE HIT AT STRAIT OF HORMUZ

Black Smoke, Fire On Thai Cargo Ship Sailing To India After Hormuz AttackThe vessel, Mayuree Naree, a bulk carrier owned by the Thai company was headed to Kandla Port in India when it came under attack

A NEW SHIPPING LINE CONNECTING MOMBASA TO INDIAN PORTS

AKKON LINE LAUNCHES NEW LINE CONNECTING MOMBASA TO INDIAN PORTS

The Port of Mombasa marked a milestone on Sunday, after the launch of new trade route connecting East Africa directly to India.

The route, operated by the Akkon Line under its East Africa Service (EAS), aims to strengthen cargo movement and economic ties between the two regions.

Kenya Ports Authority announced the milestone in a statement, confirming that the inaugural Voyage was handed the traditional certificate of first call, presented by Captain William Rutto in a ceremony that recognised the vessel's first official visit to the port.

Speaking during the landmark event, Captain Ruto emphasised the port of Mombasa's commitment to providing top-tier services to shipping partners while boosting bilateral relations at the same time.

“Mombasa Port remains committed to providing world-class services to our shipping partners and enhancing Kenya’s position as a key maritime hub," Ruto said.

"Every new service strengthens regional trade and reflects our strategic vision for East Africa’s shipping sector."

Effective immediately, the East Africa Service will operate on a bi-weekly schedule, linking major South Asian ports including Nhava Sheva, Mundra, and Karachi with East African ports in Mombasa and Dar es Salaam.

About the Akkon Line : 

Founded in 2018, Akkon Line is a growing Turkish shipping company focused on emerging trade corridors and is largely considered one of Turkey's largest container shipping operators.

With its entry into the East African market, the Mombasa Port's importance as a hub for regional trade and international shipping has been further solidified, linking East Africa more efficiently to key markets in South Asia and beyond.

The launch of the EAS service will also reinforce Mombasa’s role as a regional logistics hub for East and Central Africa, increasing trade volumes and strengthening the port’s position in global shipping networks.

Both Akkon Line and its local partner, Rais Shipping Services, expressed gratitude to KPA for its continued support, noting that smooth port operations and efficient customs processes are crucial for sustaining international shipping services.

The introduction of the East Africa Service is also expected to boost regional trade competitiveness, helping Kenya and its neighbours access South Asian markets more directly while facilitating faster import of critical goods.