Egypt Daily News – For the first time in decades, Egypt has dispatched military equipment to Somalia, following the signing of a defense cooperation protocol between the two nations amid rising tensions with Ethiopia.
This development has sparked discussions about whether this action is merely a procedural measure without intentions to escalate tensions, or if it introduces new complexities in the already strained relations between Egypt and Ethiopia, particularly concerning the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam.
Ambassador Ahmed Haggag, a former Assistant Secretary-General of the Organization of African Unity, commented that this military assistance aligns with the cooperation agreement established during the recent visit of the Somali president to Cairo and is unrelated to the dam situation.
He noted that Egypt has been training members of the Somali military for several years and mentioned the presence of Ethiopian troops in Somalia, highlighting that if Egypt sends forces under an African Union mandate, it could complicate the context further.
African affairs expert Mohamed Abdel Karim indicated that this military aid reflects Egypt’s commitment to Arab issues, focusing on strengthening the capabilities of the Somali army and enhancing security, particularly against terrorism.
Another African affairs analyst pointed out that Egypt’s relationship with Somalia encompasses three primary aspects, mainly its long-term involvement in African Union forces, which are replacing the Admis forces in Sudan.
This involvement signifies Egypt’s deep engagement in Somalia’s security and political landscape. He emphasized the importance of Egypt’s role in rebuilding the Somali military and providing humanitarian assistance during times of drought, supporting the unity of Somali territories and taking part in numerous international reconciliation efforts.
Somalia’s Ambassador to Cairo, Ali Abdi Owari, welcomed Egypt’s military support, considering it a significant step following their recent summit where a joint defense agreement was made.
He noted Egypt’s proactive stance in aiding Somalia and projected that Egypt would lead the deployment of forces in support of the Somali army after the withdrawal of current African Union forces.
This military assistance coincides with Egypt’s preparations to partake in the African Union Support Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM), anticipated to succeed the current African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS) by January 2025.
Meanwhile, the new Ethiopian ambassador to Somaliland has taken office, marking a potentially provocative move for Mogadishu, which suspects Addis Ababa of undermining its stability and territorial claims.
The Ethiopian ambassador’s visit to Somaliland involved discussions about regional security and economic partnerships, indicating a developing relationship that could further strain ties with Somalia.
