African nations seek security ties with Turkey through ‘Somalia model’

African nations seek security ties with Turkey through ‘Somalia model’ Submitted by Ragip Soylu on Tue, 05/26/2026 - 12:55 Ankara is assessing requests from African states looking to establish closer security and economic ties A Turkish drilling ship, The Cagri Bey, is seen in the water in Mogadishu on 10 April 2026 (AFP) Off African nations are increasingly pursuing the “Somali model” that Ankara and Mogadishu have developed over the years, seeking deeper ties with Turkey in hopes of receiving security and economic assistance, Turkish Defence Minister Yasar Guler told journalists over the weekend. “In response to requests, we continue to provide training and technical support to the armed forces of African countries and contribute to their capacity building,” he said during the Efes military drills in western Turkey. “In this context, several other countries are requesting the same model we implemented in Somalia. We are evaluating these requests.” Turkey and Somalia have a multifaceted relationship that began in 2011, when Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, then prime minister, visited the country as it was suffering from a severe drought. What started as a humanitarian mission has, over the years, evolved into a full-fledged security and economic alliance. Turkey has its largest overseas military base in Mogadishu and has established hospitals and companies there, while also operating the city’s port and airport. Thousands of Somali soldiers have been trained at the Turkish base, and many have also been sent to Turkey for further training. Ankara has recently deployed three F-16 fighter jets , ATAK attack helicopters, armed drones, and other assets as Turkish energy...

Original source: Middle East Eye