The University of Bosaso is pleased to announce a strategic partnership with the Ministry of Fisheries and Marine Resources of Puntland, Somalia, formalized through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed on October 13, 2024. This MoU represents a significant step forward in strengthening the sustainable development and management of Puntland’s marine resources through a comprehensive, collaborative framework between academia and government. Through this agreement, the University of Bosaso and the Ministry will bring together their respective expertise, with the University providing robust academic and research capabilities and the Ministry contributing its regulatory authority and practical resource management experience. Together, they are committed to advancing the responsible utilization and conservation of Puntland’s marine resources.

This MoU outlines a focused approach toward achieving sustainable outcomes, with key objectives centered on joint research, capacity building, data sharing, policy development, and community engagement. Among these objectives are the pursuit of joint research initiatives in marine biology, fisheries science, and sustainable resource management. This collaboration will facilitate research that will form a foundation for science-based solutions in conservation, benefiting both local and regional fisheries. Another essential component is capacity building, where tailored training programs and workshops will be established to enhance the skills of students, researchers, and Ministry personnel in fisheries and marine management. This targeted training is expected to foster local expertise and build technical knowledge essential for effective resource stewardship.

Data sharing and policy development form additional cornerstones of this MoU, as both institutions recognize the value of exchanging critical information and insights. Through data sharing, the University and Ministry aim to improve decision-making processes, support evidence-based policy recommendations, and advance the understanding of local marine ecosystems. Collaborative policy development efforts will allow both parties to craft strategies that support sustainable fisheries practices, informed by cutting-edge research and field expertise. Community engagement also features prominently in this partnership, as the MoU includes initiatives to promote awareness and community involvement in sustainable fishing practices, ensuring that conservation principles are adopted and embraced at the grassroots level.

The MoU’s implementation will be overseen by a Joint Committee, consisting of representatives from both the University of Bosaso and the Ministry. This committee is tasked with ensuring the effective execution of MoU activities and will convene bi-annually to evaluate progress, plan upcoming activities, and address any challenges. To enable the full realization of the MoU’s goals, both institutions will pursue funding from national and international sources, ensuring that projects are resourced to deliver meaningful results. This agreement will remain active for five years, with the possibility of extension by mutual agreement. Both institutions also commit to safeguarding any confidential or proprietary information shared under the MoU, ensuring it is handled with the utmost professionalism and discretion.

This partnership between the University of Bosaso and the Ministry of Fisheries and Marine Resources represents a forward-thinking and impactful approach to marine resource management in Puntland. The University is honored to collaborate in this pivotal mission, contributing to enhanced education, research, and sustainable resource practices that will benefit the region for years to come.