CAIRO, Egypt – With a backdrop of intense dialogues and strategic diplomacy, Egypt has announced a decision that may play a crucial role in shaping the future of Somalia. After extensive consultations with Somalia’s federal government, Egypt is preparing to deploy military forces to Somalia, a move that seeks to bolster stability in a region plagued by conflict and discord.
Walking a tightrope between support and skepticism, Egypt insists its mission contributes to regional peacekeeping. But why does Egypt risk discord with Ethiopia, a neighbor with whom it shares historic rivalry over the alacritous Nile? The answer lies in the belief that a stabilized Somalia equates to regional tranquility. This notion is not without its detractors, notably in Addis Ababa, who view the Egyptian involvement with a wary eye.
Yet, whispers in the corridors of Cairo confirm that Egypt plans to send two military contingents to Somalia. The precise number remains contingent upon further discussions with Somali authorities, reflecting a cautious but calculated approach.
One of these contingents will integrate with the African Union Support and Stabilization Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM), an initiative replacing the defunct African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS) that concluded its mandate in January 2025. The emergence of AUSSOM signifies a renewed commitment to security collaboration in the turbulent Horn of Africa.
But how will these forces operate under bilateral banners as well? Under particular defense cooperation agreements, Egyptian troops are slated to support, arm, and meticulously train Somalia’s National Army (SNA). An ambitious venture, indeed, reflecting a blueprint akin to Ethiopia’s bilateral engagement with Somalia—a formulation Ethiopia itself has greeted with mixed feelings.
Somalia’s President, Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, recently traversed both Addis Ababa and Cairo—a diplomatic odyssey to seek alignment. His endeavors paid off, softening previously taut interactions between Mogadishu and Addis Ababa, and more importantly, between Addis Ababa and Cairo.
Emphasizing the broader picture, these military forces are tasked with dismantling Al-Shabaab’s entrenched presence—a militant group that continues to vie for power against Somalia’s fragile UN-backed government. For over two decades, Al-Shabaab has been a ubiquitous shadow over Somalia, its removal being essential to Egypt’s regional strategic objectives.
Egypt’s foray into Somalia underscores its affinity with bodies like the African Union and the Arab League, reinforcing a narrative where cultural and strategic imperatives guide foreign policy. This convergence of Arab and African solidarity forges alliances built on more than mere geographical proximity—capturing the complex interdependencies and shared visions of a peaceful region.
“It is about not only military strength but a collaborative array of cultural and strategic partnerships,” comments a senior Egyptian diplomat, with a hint of hope edging his otherwise measured tone.
As plans unfold, it remains to see how Egypt’s heartfelt proclamation translates into tangible action—a commitment filled with both challenges and opportunities. How will this endeavor redefine the security architecture and power dynamics of the Horn of Africa? While answers evolve, the world watches with bated breath.
