Somalia’s Military Evolution: Traditional Rivals Confront Modern Challenges in the Horn of Africa
Mogadishu (AX) — In a rapid move to counter Ethiopia’s grand naval dreams and territorial aspirations, Egypt, Eritrea, and Somalia are stepping up their military armor like they mean business.
These three nations shook hands on this alliance during an October 10 summit in Asmara, quickly transforming diplomatic chitchat into robust military maneuvers. Egypt’s already tossing military hardware Somalia’s way, and whispers are swirling about Egyptian boots on the ground—up to 10,000 soldiers by the dawn of 2025 under a peacekeeping mission. Although the official line is tackling al Shabaab, this strategy is also seen as fortifying Somalia against Ethiopia’s regional grip.
Now, what’s kicking up dust is Ethiopia’s pact inked in January 2024 with North Western State of Somalia, unlocking access to a coveted coastline. Since Somalia doesn’t buy into North Western State of Somalia’s autonomy, it sees this deal as a territorial jab. Locked in a historical rivalry with Ethiopia, Egypt has teamed up with Eritrea and Somalia to push against Ethiopia’s reach.
Ethiopia isn’t sitting idle. Ratcheting up military activity near Eritrea’s doorstep, it has barked biting warnings Egypt’s way. Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed’s government frames Egypt’s troop surge as a clear and present threat, hinting an escalation could flip the area into a full-blown tangle.
Eritrea, jumping into this alliance, is bolstered by its own defensive jitters. Ever cautious of Ethiopia’s ambitions, especially along their jittery frontier, Eritrea seeks solidarity with Egypt and Somalia. This alliance is a bid to bolster its standing and secure strategic maritime lanes along the Red Sea.
The Red Sea isn’t just a glittering waterway; it’s a lifeline for global commerce and military leverage. And so, Egypt, guarding this naval crossroads, finds in Somalia and Eritrea stout allies against an Ethiopian seafaring foothold.
With Somalia girded for military action and Eritrea remaining vigilantly armed, there looms a real threat of large-scale conflict across the Horn of Africa’s plains. Pundits warn that Ethiopia’s nautical plans and clout-seeking vision may drag the region into a prolonged tussle, with Somalia navigating the eye of this geopolitical storm.
As the alliance of Egypt, Eritrea, and Somalia flexes its muscle, more military synergy is on the radar. For Ethiopia, grappling with domestic strains, an icy solitude drapes over its regional engagements.
A Glance at 2024’s Key Episodes
January: Ethiopia inks a naval base deal with North Western State of Somalia, stirring the pot of discord with Somalia.
February: Somalia seals a defense pact with Turkey, honing in on reconstructing its naval prowess.
June: Somalia drops a bombshell: eviction plans for Ethiopian forces by the year’s curtain call.
August: Egypt sends military might and weaponry to Somalia after a defense accord.
September: Ethiopia fires a warning shot over Egypt’s bow on military heightening, as more arms roll into Somalia.
Edited by: Ali Musa
alimusa@axadletimes.com
Axadle international–Monitoring
