Vienna,Austria, on September 16, 2024, Somalia officially became a member of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), a significant step for the country as it looks to harness nuclear energy for its development. The announcement was made during a key meeting of the IAEA held in Vienna, Austria.

Hamze Adan, Secretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Somalia, represented the nation at the conference. In his address, Adan highlighted Somalia’s commitment to leveraging nuclear energy to support its economic and social progress. He emphasized that Somalia views its new membership as an opportunity to advance its energy sector and improve its infrastructure.

During the conference, Adan expressed Somalia’s gratitude to the IAEA for extending membership to the country. He also conveyed a message from Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, which underscored the importance of this new partnership and Somalia’s eagerness to collaborate with international experts in the field of nuclear energy.

In addition to its focus on nuclear energy, Somalia is also gearing up to tap into its natural resources. The country is preparing for the drilling of its first oil well in the Hobyo District, located in Central Somalia. This project is expected to commence next year and is anticipated to unlock significant reserves of oil and gas, with estimates suggesting a total of 55 billion barrels of potential resources.

This dual focus on nuclear energy and oil extraction represents a strategic effort by Somalia to diversify its energy sources and boost its economic development. The IAEA membership marks a new chapter for Somalia, aligning it with global standards and practices in nuclear technology while pursuing its substantial natural resource potential.