Securing specialist Somalia insurance should be central to preparations for visiting this war torn and largely ungoverned country. Due to ongoing armed conflict, widespread violent crime, piracy and the specific targeting of westerners for hostage, travel to Somalia is strongly discouraged without expert advice and the strictest security precautions.

Official risk ratings

Accident and Evacuation
Kidnapping and Ransom
Political Risk

Potential dangers in Somalia

There are growing business opportunities in Somalia, particularly in and around Mogadishu, as serious infrastructure projects get under way. There is also a significant NGO community supporting redevelopment here.

The security situation in Somalia can be quite volatile, with extended periods of peace in the capital, Mogadishu, punctuated with terrorist violence that makes it a potentially dangerous place to be.

Offshore, although Somali pirate activity is significantly less that it once was, there is still a threat to shipping and maritime personnel. 

We regularly visit Mogadishu to support clients there. The golden rule is to have trusted local contacts on the ground and to be flexible about arrangements, changing locations or cancelling meetings if in any doubt.

We use protected armoured cars for transportation and stay in guarded compounds, rather than hotels, which can be the target of terrorist groups.

Specialist Somalia insurance with political violence cover included is absolutely essential for the proper protection of your people, your assets and your contractual and business liabilities.

Adrian Henry says: “There is a dynamic Western business and NGO presence in Somalia, concentrated in Mogadishu. As a Lloyd’s Broker, we can organise bespoke cover to match your precise needs.”