Somalia and Egypt forge closer ties as new African Union mission looms
The evolving dynamics among Somalia, Egypt, and Ethiopia signal broader geopolitical changes in the region, with the African Union playing a central role in supporting peace and security initiatives.
Somalia's Foreign Minister, Ahmed Moalim Fiqi, visited Cairo on Monday, coinciding with Egypt's announcement of its decision to send troops to a new African Union mission in Somalia.
The mission, known as the African Union Support and Stabilisation Mission in Somalia (USSOM), is set to begin next year, replacing the African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS), which concludes at the end of 2024.
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Egypt's participation in USSOM comes amid ongoing tensions with Ethiopia over the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD) on the Nile River.
Productive meeting today between FM Badr Abdelatty and Somali Foreign Minister Ahmed Moalim Fiqi. Both ministers discussed strengthening bilateral relations, cooperation in counterterrorism efforts, and facilitating the formation of the AUSSOM mission. pic.twitter.com/6HlTTdALQY
— Egypt MFA Spokesperson (@MfaEgypt) December 23, 2024
Egypt views the dam as a threat to its water security, while Ethiopia sees it as vital for its energy and economic growth.
Despite their strained relations, Ethiopia has also agreed to join the USSOM mission. Ethiopia has maintained a significant military presence in Somalia, including as part of ATMIS, and currently deploys thousands of troops in regions such as Jubaland, Southwest, and Hirshabelle.
Ahmed's visit highlights shifting alliances in the Horn of Africa. Somalia appears to be drawing closer to Egypt, a development that comes as Ethiopia strengthens ties with Somaliland, a self-declared independent region of Somalia.
Ethiopia's agreement with Somaliland includes enhanced maritime access and discussions about potential recognition of Somaliland's independence. These moves have added complexity to the relationships in the region.
USSOM will replace ATMIS at a time when stability in Somalia remains a priority for neighbouring states. The evolving dynamics among Somalia, Egypt, and Ethiopia signal broader geopolitical changes in the region, with the African Union playing a central role in supporting peace and security initiatives.
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