2014
Bosaso founding
Established as a post-secondary marine science institute: Diploma provision and three academic departments — Navigational, Fishing Technology and Marine Environment.
About SMAFRI
Institutional identity and background
The Somalia Marine and Fisheries Research Institute is the marine and fisheries science institution of Somalia, based in the port city of Bosaso, Bari Region.
What distinguishes the Institute
Research-led, integrated across the skills ladder, proven in delivery, and institutionally governed.
SMAFRI brings together the three functions on which a marine economy depends: scientific research into the condition of marine ecosystems and fisheries resources; education and technical training for the people who work in the sector; and scientific advice to the authorities responsible for managing it.
It is a professional scientific and educational body committed to academic excellence and ethical integrity in the management of the marine, maritime and fisheries sector, working to ensure that planning and policy decisions result in oceans and coastlines that are managed sustainably.
Training institutions transmit existing knowledge. SMAFRI generates new knowledge about Somalia’s own marine and fisheries resources and then teaches it. The Diploma curriculum, the vocational catalogue and the advisory function all draw on the Institute’s own research and field experience.
The Institute has operated in Bosaso since 2014 and was formally registered with the Puntland Ministry of Higher Education on 13 September 2015.
Establishment
From pioneer marine science institute to a public research institution.
2014
2015
2015
Formal registration
Registered with the Puntland Ministry of Higher Education on 13 September 2015.
2016
Fil-Fil centre
The Fil-Fil Fishing Vocational Training Center opens in Bosaso, delivering eight fisheries trades to youth and working fishermen.
2016
2017–18
2017–18
PIMS partnership
Institutional capacity development and structured training for Puntland fishing companies and fisherfolk, with DFID and DANIDA support.
2024
Bari coast delivery
FAO RAAISE and UNDP SAAMEYNTA: training of trainers, community fisheries skills, and fish-handling programmes in Bandarbeyla and Bargaal.
2024
Now
Now
SMAFRI
Public marine and fisheries research institute under By-Laws — the same continuing institution formerly known as SMAFSI / SMFSI.
Vision, mission and values
A centre of excellence for marine and fisheries science that supports the sustainable development of Somalia’s blue economy.
Advance scientific knowledge
Design and conduct research on fish stocks, marine biodiversity, water quality, aquaculture and climate-related impacts; publish findings; maintain scientific records.
Build national capacity
Educate marine science graduates and technicians; train working fishermen; develop the skills of sector professionals; strengthen the scientific workforce.
Provide evidence-based advice
Convert research and data into management advice, policy briefs, stock assessments and technical guidance usable by Government, industry and communities.
Scientific integrity
Honesty, objectivity and rigour. Fabrication, falsification and plagiarism are prohibited.
Research independence
Findings are reported as they are found. Donor support is accepted only where it is consistent with independence.
Transparency
Admission criteria published in advance; competitive procurement; records available to oversight authorities.
Accountability
A named accounting officer, internal controls, external audit by the State audit authority, and annual reporting.
Gender equity
Equal opportunity in recruitment and admission, and the deliberate inclusion of women in training and the scientific workforce.
Environmental sustainability
Research and advice directed at responsible use of marine resources, with ethical clearance where required.
Value for money
Economy and efficiency in the use of public and donor resources.
Professional excellence
High academic and professional standards, aligned to national and international qualification frameworks.
Innovation
Improved fishing technology, aquaculture practice and post-harvest methods appropriate to Somali conditions.
Public service
The Institute exists to serve Somalia’s coastal communities, its fisheries sector and its people.