Somaliland's role in potential Egyptian-Ethiopian War
Tension is increasing as Ethiopia and Egypt continue to butt heads
over the Nile River. Ethiopia remains firm on building the $42
billion Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam. Egypt is determined to stop
Ethiopia from building the dam, claiming that Egypt is the “gift of
the Nile” and water supply will decrease by 20% and hydroelectric
power would decrease by 40%.
The battle over the Nile has already drawn neighboring countries
into the dispute. Sudan and South Sudan have expressed their support
for Ethiopia’s dam, while Somalia declared their allegiance to
Egypt.
Earlier this month, Egyptian army officials arrived in Somalia to
discuss revamping the Somalia National Army and building a possible
Egyptian military base. It appears that if Egypt & Ethiopia do go to
war, Egypt is relying on Somalia’s strategic location to attack
Ethiopia. In order to do so, they will need to go through Somaliland
first – with the help of Somalia.
Which comes to the question: What is Somaliland’s stance on this
issue and what role would they play?
The people of Somaliland will never forget the role Egypt played
during the struggle years against Siad Barre’s regime. Egypt armed
and supplied military hardware that was used to slaughter the people
of Somaliland. After reclaiming our independence in 1991, Egypt has
been using their influence in the Arab/Africa world to hinder any
chance of us getting recognition.
Somaliland’s strongest ally in Africa is Ethiopia. Since reclaiming
the independence we were granted in 1960, Ethiopia and Somaliland
have shared an unbreakable bond. Both countries have operated on
issues such as trade and security. A close relationship – but not
close enough considering the fact they have yet to recognize
Somaliland as a sovereign nation.
Regardless, Somaliland remains loyal to their brothers of Ethiopia.
If the two countries do go to the war we will support them through
thick and thin.
The Somaliland government has made their stance on this issue clear
and expressed their commitment to defend Ethiopia. That being said,
we need Ethiopia to meet us half-way and take the lead of granting
us our rightful recognition. It’s time we stop lying in bed with
each other and make our relationship legal and official.
Ethiopia has every right to use the Nile waters to develop their
nation and provide for their citizens just like other countries
situated on the Nile. It’s in Egypt’s best interest to
diplomatically resolve this issue with Ethiopia and reach a common
solution that will benefit both countries. If Egypt insists on
stirring chaos, Ethiopia can definitely count on the people of
Somaliland to help them fight off any potential threat.
By: Robleh Mohamud Lafcanbe
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