Kenyan President William Ruto announced on Saturday that he and Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni would mediate the escalating dispute between Ethiopia and Somalia, a conflict that poses a threat to regional stability.
The disagreement stems from Ethiopia’s plans to develop a port in Somaliland, a breakaway region of Somalia seeking recognition of its sovereignty. Ethiopia, which has a significant military presence in Somalia combating al-Qaeda-linked militants, has been at odds with Somalia’s government over the project.
Somaliland, which declared independence in 1991, has faced challenges in achieving international recognition, despite maintaining relative peace and stability within its borders.
The tension has drawn Somalia closer to Egypt, with whom Ethiopia has long been at odds over the construction of a massive hydroelectric dam on the Nile River, as well as Eritrea, another of Ethiopia’s adversaries.
Ruto emphasized the importance of Somali security to the broader region, noting that stability in Somalia is crucial for fostering a conducive environment for investment and economic growth.
Previous efforts to resolve the conflict, including negotiations in Ankara, Turkey, have yet to yield significant progress.
Requests for comment from Ethiopia’s government and Somalia’s foreign minister were not immediately returned.