Kenya and Uganda Offer Mediation in Ethiopia-Somalia Dispute

Kenya and Uganda will mediate a dispute between Ethiopia and Somalia, which concerns a port project in Somaliland. The disagreement is straining regional stability and has led Somalia to forge closer ties with Egypt and Eritrea, amidst ongoing tensions regarding Ethiopia’s development initiatives. President Ruto emphasized the importance of Somalia’s security for overall regional stability and economic growth.

On Saturday, Kenyan President William Ruto announced that he and Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni would mediate a dispute between Ethiopia and Somalia that poses a threat to regional stability. Ethiopia, currently engaged in combat against al Qaeda-linked militants within Somalia, is at odds with the Somali government over plans to develop a port in Somaliland in exchange for potential recognition of Somaliland’s autonomy. This dispute has prompted Somalia to strengthen ties with Egypt and Eritrea, both of which have ongoing tensions with Ethiopia regarding the Nile River and its hydro dam initiatives.

The western Horn of Africa has witnessed persistent tensions, particularly over issues concerning the self-declared independent region of Somaliland. Although Somaliland has governed itself with relative peace since declaring independence from Somalia in 1991, it has not achieved widespread international recognition. The ongoing conflict reveals deeper regional dynamics, with countries such as Egypt and Eritrea aligning with Somalia against Ethiopia, due to Ethiopia’s controversial development policies and historical antagonisms.

The mediation effort by Kenya and Uganda aims to address the ongoing dispute between Ethiopia and Somalia, with potential implications for the stability of the entire region. With previous conflict resolution attempts failing in Ankara, the international community may look to this new initiative for hope of progress. Ultimately, the security of Somalia is critical to fostering a stable environment conducive to investment and growth in the region.

Original Source: www.sowetanlive.co.za