Government Ends Licences Issued For Somali Flagged Ships And Boats

Somali federal government has terminated all the certificates issued to commercial and fishing boats with the nation’s flag, a move aiming at improving the safety of the country’s waters.

In a statement, the Ministry of Ports and Maritime Transport said it revoked all licences from Somali flagged commercial and fishing ships saying the ministry ensures the safety of the Mariners.

The ministry directed the owners of the vessels refer the licences to its headquarters in the Somali capital.

“All commercial and fishing boats and ships previously registered with the Ministry of Ports and Maritime Transport should return the licences as soon as possible,” the statement reads in part.

The ministry vowed that it will take legal action against those securing licences illegally and operate in Somalia’s water.

“The ships and boats with Somali flags which that not secured the licences in accordance with international Maritime law and Somali constitution will face legal action,” the ministry warned.