Kenya And Uganda Step In To Mediate Ethiopia-Somalia Port Dispute

      By Lisbeth Micheni, Kenya 

Kenyan President William Ruto and Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni, have offered to mediate a growing dispute between Ethiopia and Somalia over Ethiopia’s plans to build a port in Somaliland.

This contentious development has escalated tensions, given Somaliland’s quest for independence from Somalia.

The Kenyan President and Ugandan President have both expressed their willingness to help resolve the conflict.

Their initiative aims to foster dialogue and prevent further regional instability in the Horn of Africa, an area already marked by complex political dynamics.

The dispute stems from Ethiopia’s strategic plans to establish a port in Berbera, Somaliland.

While Ethiopia views this as critical for its economic and trade interests, Somalia opposes the project, citing Somaliland as part of its sovereign territory.

The move has also drawn Somalia closer to Ethiopia’s rivals, including Egypt and Eritrea, compounding regional rivalries.

Observers have noted that mediation by Kenya and Uganda, both influential players in the region, could help bridge the divide.

Both nations have a history of facilitating peace efforts in East Africa and maintaining strong diplomatic ties with the involved parties.

As of now, Ethiopia and Somalia have yet to publicly comment on the mediation offer, but regional analysts believe that such diplomatic efforts could pave the way for a peaceful resolution.

This development highlights the interconnected challenges of sovereignty, regional alliances, and economic interests in East Africa.