East African Gazette
Somali
The President of the Somali Congress of Trade Unions (SOCOTU), Mohamed Haji has said they have signed a partnership with Turkey for the production of oil and gas.
The SOCOTU congress welcomed the agreement citing immense potential benefits for the Somali nation, particularly in the employment workforce.
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The signing was approved by the cabinet March 27 in regard to the production of oil and gas. Haji said “One of SOCOTU’s primary concerns is the inclusion and empowerment of Somali workers in this endeavor.
“We assert that Somalis should play a central role in all aspects of oil and gas production, from exploration to extraction” he said.
He said the government should prioritize the recruitment and training of Somali workers, to ensure that they possess necessary skills to participate effectively in the industry.
He explained that the agreement between Somalia and Turkey holds significant promise for the nation’s economic development and the alleviation of poverty.
“By leveraging its natural resources, Somalia can bolster its economy, create employment opportunities, and improve the livelihoods of its people” he said.
As SOCOTU members we firmly believe that this agreement marks a crucial step towards harnessing Somalia’s potential for the benefit of its citizens, he noted.
Key provisions outlined in the agreement include the establishment of the Somali Petroleum Agency and the Somali National Oil Company.
These institutions will play pivotal roles in negotiating agreements, issuing licenses, overseeing operations, and ensuring compliance with petroleum legislation, he said.
SOCOTU stresses the urgency of promptly establishing these entities to facilitate the smooth implementation of the agreement.
Furthermore, SOCOTU underscores the importance of learning from the experiences of other oil-producing nations and how workers are treated and protected.
The union urges the Somali government to address potential pitfalls proactively, he noted.
By prioritizing equitable distribution of resources and fostering transparency, Somalia can avoid the conflicts and inequities that have plagued other oil-rich nations.
He said “With solidarity SOCOTU will fully support the agreement on oil and gas production between Somalia and Turkey with commitment to advocating for the interests of Somali workers”.
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According to the Chief Labour Affairs External Labour Power House Usher Owere, Turkey has been supporting Somalia for many years it’s one of the most strategic locations between Turkey and other Arab richest countries like Saudi Arabia.
Owere said Turkey has strong relations with Somalia people it’s one the countries that has supported them especially after the war in Somalia, their numbers of projects under Tika built headquarters for Somalia Confederation of Trade Union
“I would like to appreciate the Turkish government for supporting the people of Somalia. That agreement will lift Somalia to another level.
Owere spearheaded the Labour movement for 15-years as the Chairman General of National Organisation Trade Union (NOTU).