The International Maritime Organization (IMO) conducted a four-day Port Security and Inter-Agency Coordination Workshop in Bosaso, Puntland State of Somalia, (14 to 17 September 2026), under the European Union-funded Regional Programme for Maritime Security in the Red Sea Area.
The workshop brought together port, security and government authorities to strengthen port security through better coordination, information sharing and incident response.
A key outcome was the development of draft Terms of Reference and a roadmap for establishing a multi-agency Port Security Advisory Committee. Participants also strengthened their understanding of their roles and responsibilities in supporting port security and responding to security incidents.
Participants explored practical ways to apply the International Ship and Port Facility Security (ISPS) Code and related SOLAS requirements, with a focus on security planning and cooperation among the agencies involved in port security.
Discussions focused on how authorities, port operators and security agencies can work more effectively together to address common challenges, improve communication and strengthen security arrangements. Participants also identified practical measures to improve coordination and support international maritime security standards.
The workshop was opened and closed by Puntland Minister of Sea Transport, Ports and Marine Crime Intervention, His Excellency Shakir Mohamed Guled.
The activity forms part of IMO's ongoing technical assistance in the Red Sea region, supporting efforts to strengthen maritime security, improve the resilience of port infrastructure and promote international maritime security standards.
The EU-funded Regional Programme for Maritime Security in the Red Sea Area supports beneficiary countries in strengthening maritime security, port security and safety of navigation through technical assistance, training and institutional support.
