Egypt is ramping up its military presence in Somalia as it prepares to replace Ethiopian troops by the December 31 deadline. The military partnership aims to enhance Somali security forces’ capabilities against Al-Shabaab, amid growing tensions between Egypt and Ethiopia over water rights issues related to the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam.
In the context of the looming December 31st deadline for the withdrawal of Ethiopian troops from Somalia, Egypt has initiated a significant military mission in the country. Cairo is not only deploying military personnel but is also providing training and support to Somali security forces in their efforts against Al Qaeda-affiliated militant groups. This move aligns with a military cooperation agreement signed between Egypt and Somalia, reinforcing their military alliance against common adversaries, particularly Ethiopia. A substantial Egyptian military presence, including weapons, advisors, trainers, and counter-terrorism units, is expected to establish a stronghold in Mogadishu before the year’s end. Ethiopia currently maintains roughly 22,000 troops in Somalia as part of a bilateral agreement and under the auspices of an African Union peacekeeping mission aimed at combating threats from Al Shabab. However, relations between Egypt and Ethiopia have soured significantly over the latter’s controversial Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam project, which Egypt fears will diminish its access to Nile waters. In light of Somalia’s territorial concerns regarding a recent agreement granting Ethiopia port access via Somaliland, Egypt’s support appears to bolster Somalia’s sovereignty aspirations. As tensions escalate, it has been reported that Egyptian-backed Somali forces have proactively moved to establish control along supply routes used by Ethiopian troops, thereby countering any potential Ethiopian reinforcements before the withdrawal deadline. Reports indicate that Ethiopia has responded to Egypt’s military buildup by increasing its own troop levels, thereby intensifying regional military dynamics. Both nations continue to engage diplomatically, with Ethiopian officials expressing concern regarding external arms flows exacerbating Somalia’s security situation. Conversely, Somali officials have accused Ethiopia of weapon smuggling across shared borders amidst these rising tensions. Despite persistent diplomatic efforts by Ethiopia to assure Egypt of no adverse impacts from the dam, negotiations over its operation remain fraught, reflecting deep-rooted regional tensions. In response to these developments, Egypt has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting Somalia’s stability while intensifying its strategic partnerships in the Horn of Africa, signaling Egypt’s intent to reshape its influence in the region.
The current military developments in Somalia are a direct response to the geopolitical tensions involving Egypt, Ethiopia, and Somalia. The December deadline for Ethiopian troop withdrawal is a critical juncture, posing potential instability in the Horn of Africa. Egypt’s military mission in Somalia represents an effort to ensure regional security and counterbalance Ethiopian influence, particularly concerning the contentious Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam that has caused friction over water rights along the Nile. Furthermore, emerging military agreements between Egypt and Somalia signify a strategic alliance born out of shared security concerns about militant groups such as Al Shabab, showcasing Egypt’s intention to play a more proactive role in the region.
In summary, Egypt’s military efforts in Somalia reflect a strategic initiative aimed at leveraging military support to strengthen its alliance with Somali forces amid rising tensions with Ethiopia. The dual threats of militant activity and territorial disputes necessitate Cairo’s involvement in Somalia, while the ongoing disagreement over the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam adds further complexity to regional stability. With the evolving dynamics, Egypt’s actions signify both a protective stance towards Somalia and a calculated move to assert its influence against Ethiopian ambitions in the Horn of Africa, positioning itself as a pivotal player in regional security matters.
Original Source: www.thenationalnews.com
