Somalia, 16 November 2025 — Somalia’s Ministry of Petroleum and Mineral Resources has issued a public warning against what it describes as illegal activities involving the exploitation of the country’s natural resources, stressing that only the Federal Government has the authority to approve petroleum and mineral agreements.
In a statement released on Sunday, the Ministry said it had observed individuals and entities engaging in what it termed “unauthorized and unlawful resource-related dealings,” including attempts to issue or negotiate permits without government approval.
“Only the Federal Government of Somalia has the legal authority to approve, regulate and oversee any activities related to the exploration and development of the country’s natural resources.” the Ministry said.
The Ministry added that the reminder follows international legal norms recognising the sovereignty of states over their natural resources, as well as the Somali Constitution and revenue-sharing agreements governing resource management.