Mogadishu, 19th September: A visit to the Mogadishu seaport today reveals a hub of activity, massive business and transformation. Here, ships dock as others wait in tow; modern containers have replaced the dhows, with new cranes moving cargo to and from ships. This is Mogadishu’s major route for exports and imports, with the former mainly comprising of fruit and livestock.

The reduced threat of piracy and improved security has attracted more business to the port, with growing investor confidence.

Anton Gorbakon, Chief Officer of the Ruby Singapore Ship says the improved security and modernized facilities at the port have been a huge attraction.

“There is new management here at the Mogadishu Port and it’s growing really fast and attracting international companies like Parmer Lines, Mediterranean Shipping Company, CMSGM and everybody would like to do business with Mogadishu because it’s a growing market. I believe very soon everything will be fine in Mogadishu,” he says.

Thousands of containers are delivered to the port every month. The import, export business is expected to grow further and generate more revenue for the Federal Government.

“Over the last few months, the capacity of cargo and containers has increased. We deliver around 300 units every month and this is only our ship, we take the loaded containers to and from Mogadishu every month, step by step the port is growing,”  adds Anton Gorbakon, Chief Officer of the Ruby Singapore ship.

The seaport was handed over to the Turkish company Al Bayrak by the government. Al Bayrak has started modernising the port with new equipment and technology that will professionalise port services.

The booming business at the port is a reflection of the prevailing peace in Somalia.