A Somali Fisherman’s Life Through Conflict and Change
Since 1972, Hassan Mohamed Rooble has lived by the rhythm of the sea. Along Somalia’s long coastline—from Eyl in the northeast to Kismayo in the south—he has witnessed the changing fortunes of small-scale fisheries, shaped by conflict, neglect, and the quiet determination of coastal communities.
Hassan entered the fishing sector at a young age, driven by personal passion rather than family tradition. In 1973, he joined the Kulmis Teesaro Cooperative Union, initially working with small wooden boats and basic gear. Over time, his commitment and experience led him to serve as the cooperative’s accounting officer. Decades later, in 2013, he was elected chairperson of the National Federation of Fishermen’s Cooperatives, where he focused on strengthening community-based fisheries management and supporting local development along the Somali coast.
“I loved fishing and wanted to pursue it on my own,” Hassan says, reflecting on a career that has spanned more than five decades.
A typical fishing day begins before sunrise. Equipment is prepared in the early morning hours, and trips to the fishing grounds can last until midday or later, sometimes stretching into the night when fish activity increases. While Hassan himself has avoided serious incidents at sea, he knows the risks remain high for many fishermen, particularly during rough weather or when boats and engines fail far from shore.
For years, insecurity has been one of the most serious challenges facing Somali fishermen. During the collapse of state institutions, there was no authority to protect coastal communities or regulate maritime activity. Foreign vessels engaged in illegal fishing operated freely in Somali waters, often pushing local fishermen out of their traditional grounds.
“At that time, fishermen were afraid to go far offshore,” Hassan recalls. “There was the risk of attack, kidnapping, or having boats stolen.” Some foreign armed vessels, claiming to protect the sea, wrongly accused local fishermen of piracy. These misunderstandings led to harassment, arrests, and injuries at sea. On land, insecurity along the coast made movement difficult, with fishermen forced to pay informal fees at checkpoints just to transport their catch.
Conditions have improved in some regions where government presence and local authorities have become more active. However, safety at sea remains a concern, particularly for small-scale fishermen who lack communication tools, navigation systems, or emergency support.
Despite these challenges, fishing remains one of Somalia’s most important livelihoods, especially in coastal areas where employment options are limited. Yet the sector continues to suffer from poor infrastructure, outdated equipment, and limited technical training. Many fishermen still rely on old tools and unsafe boats, reducing both productivity and safety.
Cold storage facilities are scarce, and access to microfinance remains limited, making it difficult for fishermen to invest in better gear or expand their activities. While some recent initiatives have supported fish trading, broader and more consistent assistance from government and international partners is still needed.
Climate change has added another layer of uncertainty. According to Hassan, fishing seasons have become less predictable, and periods of fish scarcity are increasingly common.
“The traditional calendar that fishermen relied on has been disrupted,” he explains, pointing to irregular weather patterns and changing sea conditions.
Many fishermen also use car engines instead of proper marine engines, leading to frequent breakdowns and dangerous situations offshore.
Today, some of Hassan’s children have begun fishing themselves, continuing a livelihood that has sustained their family for generations. For him, the future of Somali fisheries depends on protection, fairness, and recognition.
“I urge the world to stop illegal fishing in Somali waters,” Hassan says. “Foreign vessels are exploiting our resources and taking away our livelihoods. We need international cooperation to protect our seas and ensure Somali fishermen can work safely and access fair markets for their catch.”
Along Somalia’s coastline, the struggle is not only about fish. It is about survival, sovereignty, and the right of those who have lived by the sea for generations to continue doing so.
A Somali Fisherman’s Life Through Conflict and Change
