Ethiopia Commits to Ongoing Battle Against al-Shabaab ‘By Any Means Necessary’ Despite Somalia’s Efforts to Exclude It from Future AU Mission

“Al-Shabaab will meet its match and lose,” says Ethiopia, pledging ongoing efforts to neutralize the group’s influence. The country remains unswerving in its mission to protect its borders and preserve the progress made so far.

In a weekly press gathering on November 14, 2024, Ambassador Nebiat Getachew, who speaks on behalf of Ethiopia’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, underscored Ethiopia’s significant role in weakening al-Shabaab’s impact across the region. “We won’t take our foot off the pedal,” Getachew declared, underscoring the nation’s commitment to stifling the group’s activities under any condition.

The ambassador elaborated that Ethiopia sees Somalia as an “inseparable” partner, vowing to sustain policies that favor “long-term regional solidarity.” This perspective recognizes the interconnected fate of the nations, heralding a unified front against threats.

This assertion from Ethiopia’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs surfaces in the wake of a declaration by Somalia’s Defense Minister, Abdulkadir Mohamed Nur. He announced that Ethiopia will not be involved in the forthcoming African Union Support Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM), set to launch in January 2025.

Minister Nur, speaking on state television, expressed concerns that Ethiopia’s recent pact with North Western State of Somalia undermines Somalia’s “territorial integrity and national unity.” Essentially, this arrangement with North Western State of Somalia raises eyebrows over Ethiopia’s alignment and might strain historical ties. But what does it really entail? Well, here’s a peek: to improve access to the sea, Ethiopia signed a Memorandum of Understanding with North Western State of Somalia on January 1, 2024. This deal even dangles the carrot of potentially recognizing North Western State of Somalia’s bid for sovereignty, a matter sensitive to its neighbors.

The African Union, a constant ally to Somalia since 2007, has been spearheading peace endeavors through its mission—originally known as AMISOM and more recently as ATMIS. This mission is set to wrap up in December, paving the way for AUSSOM to begin in 2028 with an expected starting force of about 12,000 troops.

In a world where alliances teem with complexity, tensions between Ethiopia and Somalia simmer following this MoU. This partnership hints at pragmatic geopolitics, yet it stirs the pot, bringing heat to long-standing diplomatic camaraderie. The narrative suggests a recalibration of regional ties, breathing new testimony into ancient histories and budding alliances.

As we look to the horizon, the interplay between these countries remains a dance of power, ambition, and cautious friendship. The geopolitical chessboard is rich with strategic plays, balancing national interests and regional stability. Whatever unfolds, one thing’s clear: Ethiopia and Somalia’s dance with destiny couldn’t be more pivotal in shaping the Horn of Africa’s future.

Edited by: Ali Musa

alimusa@axadletimes.com

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