Although it wasn’t a “invasion” in the conventional sense, the Portuguese did establish a foothold in the Horn of Africa, including sections of Somalia. The word “incursion” could be used to describe their efforts, especially in the 16th century, to exert influence or control over specific areas of Somalia during the Age of Exploration.
As part of its broader nautical development, Portugal started investigating Africa’s east coast in the fifteenth century. Their main goals were to construct strategic outposts and control trade routes along the African coast, especially for the trade in spices and other commodities. They did build a few trading posts and forts around the area, notably in various areas of East Africa.
Portuguese involvement in Somalia:
Portuguese Forts: The Portuguese made an effort to gain territory in the area during the 16th century. As part of their plan to dominate the Indian Ocean trade routes, they erected forts in areas of present-day Somalia, particularly along the coast near the city of Mogadishu. The Portuguese sought to disrupt the trade networks of other regional powers, such as the Ottoman Empire and Arabian traders, and gain control over the trade in spices and other valuable commodities.
Mogadishu and Other Coastal Cities: The Portuguese and the native Somali sultanates clashed throughout this time. Under Alfonso de Albuquerque’s command, the Portuguese naval attempted to establish dominance over the East African coast. The Portuguese attempted to increase their power in the area after seizing Mogadishu, a significant port city, in 1520.
Decline and Resistance: The Somali people, especially the local sultanates, fiercely opposed the Portuguese presence in Somalia. Local leaders were able to drive the Portuguese out of the area over time. Due to opposition from indigenous groups and Portuguese challenges in sustaining their extensive empire, the Portuguese were mainly driven out of the Horn of Africa by the middle of the 17th century.
The Portuguese never established enduring control over Somalia, in contrast to other European nations like the British and Italians who would later annex parts of the country.
Therefore, the Portuguese were never able to establish long-term domination in Somalia, and their power there progressively waned despite a few military incursions and short attempts to take control of various districts.
