Egypt is bolstering its military mission in Somalia prior to the Ethiopian troop withdrawal deadline, enhancing cooperation with Somali forces against militants. A significant increase in military resources and personnel is expected, aligning with Cairo’s broader strategic objectives amid tensions with Ethiopia over the Nile and regional influence.
Egypt is intensifying its military presence in Somalia ahead of the December 31 deadline for the withdrawal of Ethiopian troops, facilitating training and support for Somali forces engaged in combating Al Qaeda-linked groups. In August, a pivotal military cooperation agreement was signed between Egypt and Somalia, leading to the dispatch of weapons, military advisors, and counter-terrorism operatives. It is anticipated that thousands of Egyptian personnel will be active in Somalia by year-end. Currently, approximately 22,000 Ethiopian troops remain in Somalia under a bilateral agreement aimed at assisting the Somali government in its efforts against the militant group Al Shabab. Egypt’s intention is to supplant these Ethiopian forces, a motion supported by Somalia, particularly as both nations experience significant tensions with Ethiopia. As Ethiopian troops prepare for withdrawal, Egypt has already deployed Somali forces, purportedly trained by the Egyptian military, along supply routes to inhibit any potential attempts of troop reinforcements from Ethiopia. This military buildup in Somalia comes amidst Ethiopia’s increased military presence, which surged by 7,000 troops following Egypt’s military assistance. Ethiopia has been vocal about its stance on the issue, stating that foreign arms could exacerbate security issues and possibly be misappropriated by terrorist entities like Al Shabab. This concern was echoed by Ethiopian President Taye Atske Selassie, further complicating regional dynamics.
The context surrounding Egypt’s military buildup in Somalia stems largely from tensions with Ethiopia over the management of the Nile River and the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD). Egypt perceives the dam as a threat to its vital water supply, arguing that it will diminish the available resources of the Nile. Moreover, Somalia has expressed concerns over Ethiopia’s growing influence in the region, exacerbated by a recent port agreement that Ethiopia struck with the breakaway region of Somaliland. The geopolitical landscape in the Horn of Africa is deeply intertwined with these military developments, particularly as both Egypt and Somalia seek to counter the influence of Ethiopian military presence in the region.
In conclusion, Egypt’s military mission in Somalia is emblematic of the ongoing regional power struggles, chiefly driven by its concerns over Ethiopia’s actions regarding the Nile River and the GERD. With significant military cooperation agreements established, Egypt’s intensified efforts to train and equip Somali forces reflect a strategic move to stabilize its southern neighbor while countering Ethiopian influence. This evolving military landscape poses questions about the balance of power in the Horn of Africa and the implications for regional security.
Original Source: www.thenationalnews.com
