Ties between Egypt and Somalia have been strengthening due to their shared distrust of Ethiopia. This has been highlighted by Egypt’s recent delivery of a significant amount of military aid to Somalia, including anti-aircraft guns and artillery. Egypt has stated that this aid is meant to support and build the capabilities of the Somali army, in line with their efforts to enhance security and stability in the region. This marks the second major cache of weapons that Egypt has sent to Somalia in recent months. The relationship between Egypt and Somalia has been bolstered by a joint security pact signed in August, which has led to several planeloads of arms being sent to Mogadishu.
The Egyptian warship that delivered the weapons began unloading them in Mogadishu, with security forces blocking off the quayside and surrounding roads for the operation. The weapons were subsequently transported to a Defence Ministry building and nearby military bases. Somali officials, including Defence Minister Abdulkadir Mohamed Nur, have been overseeing the delivery process. Notably, Somalia has reiterated that the choice of allies and military support is its own decision, not to be dictated by other countries. This stance emphasizes Somalia’s autonomy and sovereignty in the decisions it makes regarding military aid and partnerships.
One of the key factors driving the collaboration between Egypt and Somalia is their mutual distrust of Ethiopia. This sentiment has been exacerbated by Ethiopia’s involvement in a preliminary deal with the breakaway region of Somaliland. The deal involves leasing land for a port in exchange for possible recognition of Somaliland’s independence from Somalia. In response, Somalia has deemed the agreement as an infringement on its sovereignty and has called for the withdrawal of Ethiopia’s troops from its territory unless the deal is annulled. Egypt, which has had long-standing tensions with Ethiopia over the construction of a hydropower dam on the Nile River, has also criticized the Somaliland deal.
Egypt’s President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi has expressed solidarity with Somalia and vowed to protect its security. This commitment was reiterated during a news conference with Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud. Additionally, Egypt has indicated a willingness to contribute troops to a new peacekeeping mission in Somalia, as stated by the African Union. Egypt’s support for Somalia aligns with their shared interests in maintaining regional stability and security, particularly in light of Ethiopia’s actions in the region. The delivery of military aid to Somalia by Egypt reflects their strategic partnership and ongoing efforts to address security challenges.
The growing ties between Egypt and Somalia are underscored by the multiple shipments of military aid and the signing of a joint security pact. This collaborative approach is fueled by a common mistrust of Ethiopia, which has been involved in controversial agreements and military deployments in the region. Egypt’s support for Somalia and condemnation of Ethiopia’s actions illustrate a shift in regional dynamics and alliances. The coordination between Egypt and Somalia in strengthening Somalia’s defense capabilities and advancing security objectives contributes to the broader goal of promoting peace and stability in the Horn of Africa. As geopolitical tensions continue to shape relationships in the region, the alliance between Egypt and Somalia serves as a notable development with implications for regional security and stability.
