Mass Dolphin Stranding in Puntland, Somalia

BOSASO, Somalia - On Thursday, at least 110 dolphins were found stranded along the Mareero coastline near Bosaso, the commercial capital of Puntland, Somalia. Puntland's Minister of Environment, Forestry, and Climate Change, Mohamed Abdirahman, held a press conference in Garowe on Saturday to address the incident.

He confirmed that samples have been taken to determine the cause of the stranding, ruling out toxins as fish in the area showed no signs of poisoning. He commended the local community for their efforts, which led to nearly 30 dolphins being returned to the sea.

Puntland's Minister for Environment and Fisheries, Mohamed Farole, clarified in a statement on the X platform that 30 dolphins were rescued, while 69 dolphins tragically died, correcting earlier media reports that suggested a higher number of deaths.

Farole stated, "Samples were taken by the ministries and Bosaso universities to investigate causes, which may include illness, environmental changes, toxic dumping, predator avoidance, or human activities like noise pollution." He emphasized the importance of the findings for implementing measures to protect the maritime ecosystem, which significantly contributes to Somalia's economy.

The minister underscored the need for environmental protection and sustainability, noting, "Puntland, covering one-third of Somalia, has a 1,600 km coastline vital for biodiversity, marine ecosystems, and the livelihoods of millions. Protecting our coasts and seas is a collective responsibility to ensure sustainable development and safeguard marine life for future generations."

Abdirisak Abdulahi Hagaa, the region's fisheries minister, speaking to Reuters, mentioned that at least 110 dead dolphins were counted near Bosaso's port. He confirmed that the dolphins did not have wounds from nets, suggesting that their deaths were not due to physical trauma. He also noted that toxic materials were unlikely to be the cause since local fish appeared unaffected.

Residents and soldiers observed the scene, affected by the smell emanating from the dolphin carcasses, indicating the scale and impact of this environmental event in the region.

GAROWE ONLINE