Kenya and Uganda aim to mediate the escalating conflict between Ethiopia and Somalia, primarily concerning a port project in Somaliland. The dispute threatens regional stability, with Somalia securing alliances with Egypt and Eritrea. President Ruto emphasized the connection between Somalia’s security and regional prosperity, while ongoing mediation attempts by Turkey face skepticism from Somali officials. Responses from Ethiopia remain unreported, pointing to the complexities in diplomatic negotiations.
Kenyan President William Ruto and Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni have announced their intention to mediate in the growing dispute between Ethiopia and Somalia, which poses a risk to stability in the Horn of Africa. The conflict arises from Ethiopia’s controversial plan to construct a port in Somaliland, a self-declared independence-seeking region of Somalia. This development has further strained relations with the Mogadishu government, which perceives the plan as a threat to its territorial integrity. Simultaneously, Somalia has been nurturing closer ties with Egypt and Eritrea as they share mutual concerns regarding Ethiopia’s geopolitical maneuvers. President Ruto emphasized the importance of Somalia’s security in fostering regional stability by enhancing the business environment for investors.
Efforts to address the tensions through prior diplomatic initiatives in Turkey have proven unsuccessful. Following a meeting held during a recent summit, Somalia’s President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud engaged with Presidents Ruto and Museveni, although the subject of mediation was not specifically mentioned in the official statement. Somalia’s Foreign Minister, Ahmed Moallim Fiqi, expressed skepticism toward previous regional resolutions aimed at Ethiopia but remained optimistic about the current mediation led by Turkey. For the moment, responses from Ethiopian government officials regarding the mediation remain pending. Furthermore, concerns over Ethiopia’s construction of the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam have contributed to an escalated alliance between Somalia and Egypt.
The conflict between Ethiopia and Somalia is centered around Ethiopia’s plans to build a port in Somaliland, a region aiming for international recognition after declaring independence in 1991. Although Somalia has long sought to establish its sovereignty and regain control over Somaliland, the ongoing tensions have drawn in various regional players, particularly Egypt, which has its own disputes with Ethiopia tied to the Nile River and the controversial dam project. Historically, Ethiopia has been involved in military operations in Somalia targeted at insurgent groups, complicating the political relationships among these nations.
In summary, the mediation efforts led by Presidents Ruto and Museveni highlight the critical need for dialogue to resolve rising tensions between Ethiopia and Somalia, especially in light of the potential for destabilization in the Horn of Africa. The involvement of Somalia’s leadership indicates recognition of the significance of collaborative approaches in promoting regional peace, although skepticism about previous resolutions persists in Addis Ababa. The diplomatic landscape continues to evolve as both Somalia and Ethiopia navigate their strategic interests in conjunction with neighboring countries.
Original Source: www.hindustantimes.com
