Somalia’s Seafood Paradox: Abundance Without Appetite

Somalia owns one of Africa’s richest coastlines. Its waters teem with tuna, lobster, mackerel, and other high-value fish. Yet inside many Somali homes, dinner plates still hold beef and goat long before fish ever makes an appearance.

It’s a national paradox — and one that refuses to go away.

Fish consumption in Somalia is rising, especially in Mogadishu’s bustling markets. Despite growing supply and awareness, many households still avoid fish due to old habits, myths, and cultural taboos.

Hassan Abukar, a specialist in marine affairs, says Somalis once knew almost nothing about fish:

“Only a few people ate fish in the past. Cities were less connected. It was during the military government that many first tasted it — there were days when butcheries didn’t serve beef at all, only fish.”

Ali Saeed has watched the transformation firsthand:

“Today, people buy fish like never before. Boats have increased, demand has surged — fish is finally getting attention.”

The Consumers

• Mustaf Mohamed, a former fish skeptic:
• “People think fish causes allergies. But this year I eat it more than beef — and honestly, it feels healthier.”
• Khadijo Mohamed, a lifelong fish lover:
• “I grew up on fish. I don’t even like meat.”

Mainly in Mogadishu, where fish markets are expanding, vendors are busy from morning to dusk, and consumers—especially health-conscious youth—are turning to seafood.

The turning point began during the military era, when nationwide campaigns pushed households to add fish to their diet. That momentum stalled during years of conflict, but it is now picking up again.

• Old beliefs that fish is “coastal food.”
• Myths about allergies
• Lack of cooking skills
• Deep cultural loyalty to red meat
• Generational attitudes passed down for decades

Even in a country blessed with abundant fish, perception still shapes the plate.

More boats. More supply. More awareness.

Nutrition experts are pushing the message that fish is lighter, cleaner, and healthier than red meat — and the public is slowly catching on.

With 3,300 km of coastline, Somalia has the second-longest shoreline in Africa. For decades, the nation depended almost entirely on livestock, overshadowing the enormous economic potential of its fisheries. International agencies say the marine sector could become a major economic pillar if fully harnessed.

Somalia is surrounded by a seafood fortune — yet much of it goes unused in everyday kitchens. As cultural barriers weaken and awareness grows, fish is finally carving out a place at Somali tables. But for that shift to reach every household, Somalia will need consistent education, stronger fish markets, and a national mindset that sees fish not as an alternative… but as an opportunity.

 

By Fathi Hassan, Bilan Media