Somalia Roundup: Ethiopia-Somaliland port deal, EAC membership, defense agreement

Defence Agreement:

Somalia has inked its third-ever defence agreement with a foreign power, coinciding with the impending departure of peacekeeping mission soldiers and the country's preparation to assume full security responsibilities. The Minister of Defense of Somalia, Abdikadir Mohamed Nur announced that the defence agreement with Turkey marks a significant development in the decade-long support provided by Turkey towards the stabilization mission in Somalia, Garowe Online reports. The accord, officially named the "Defense and Economic Cooperation Framework Agreement," was signed earlier this week as a sign of the deepening of ties between the two nations. Turkey's Minister of National Defense, Yaşar Güler, said, “The agreement will significantly elevate Turkish-Somalia relations and substantially contribute to enhancing peace and security in Somalia and the Horn of Africa region."

EAC membership

Somalia has officially become the eighth member of the East African Community (EAC) after its National Assembly ratified the regional economic bloc's membership. The ratification, completed well within the stipulated six-month deadline, solidifies Somalia's position in the EAC, responsible for trade and regional integration, Garowe Online reports. The approval of Somalia's request to join the EAC was granted during the EAC Summit in Arusha on November 24th, 2023. This was followed by the signing of a treaty on December 15th, 2023, after years of attempts and rigorous vetting initiated during Hassan Sheikh Mohamud's first term. The ratification by Somalia's Parliament marks the conclusive step in the membership process. Somalia now joins the ranks of Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, Rwanda, Burundi, South Sudan, and the Democratic Republic of Congo in the East African Community. Notably, these East African countries have been crucial security stakeholders in Somalia, actively contributing to the fight against Al-Shabaab militants in various regions of the country.

Robotic Lab

In a collaborative effort between the Turkish Cooperation and Coordination Agency (TKA) and Zamzam Foundation University in Somalia, a state-of-the-art 3D Robotic Coding Lab has been established at the Department of Computer Engineering. Radio Dalsan reports that the initiative aims to enhance the technological capabilities of Somali students and promote proficiency in the field. With the support of TKA, five technical teachers from Tokat Technical and Industrial Vocational High School travelled to Mogadishu. Over five days, they conducted theoretical and practical training sessions on '3D Robotic Coding' for a total of 197 participants, including students and lecturers from the Computer Engineering department at Zamzam Foundation University. The project not only provides hands-on training but also aligns with the broader objective of increasing knowledge and skills in the technological field.

US condemns terrorist attacks

The United States Embassy in Mogadishu has vehemently condemned the recent terrorist attack in the Somali capital that claimed the lives of United Arab Emirates (UAE) military trainers and Somali soldiers. In a statement posted on the X platform, the embassy expressed its deepest condolences to the families of the victims and strongly denounced the heinous act. The statement read, "We extend our deepest condolences to the loved ones of those who lost their lives in yesterday’s deplorable terrorist attack against UAE military trainers and Somali soldiers valiantly working to advance the nation’s stability. We condemn this cowardly attack in the strongest terms and remain steadfast in our support of Somali efforts to build peace." The U.S. Embassy's message underscores its solidarity with Somalia in the face of terrorism and emphasises continued support for the nation's endeavour to establish stability and peace. The attack serves as a stark reminder of the challenges faced by those committed to the progress and security of the region.

Ethiopia-Somaliland port deal

Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed reassured that his government has no intention of causing harm to Somalia, emphasizing Ethiopia's historical efforts to support Somalia against the insurgency led by Al-Shabaab. Addressing members of parliament, Abiy Ahmed underscored the significant sacrifices made by Ethiopians in aiding Somalia's quest for peace. “Ethiopia, being a friend, does not wish any harm to come upon Somalia. Ethiopia does not acknowledge war against any country in principle. However, some forces are trying to incite conflict between the two nations, which should not happen. Our request is for sea access based on mutual interest.  This is useful not only for Ethiopia but also for regional cooperation.” Abiy is quoted by the Somali Guardian. This statement follows tensions arising from a sea access deal between Ethiopia and the breakaway region of Somaliland, prompting disapproval from authorities in Mogadishu. President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud declared that talks with Ethiopia would only resume if Ethiopia retracts its memorandum of understanding leasing a parcel of land along the Red Sea from Somaliland. The situation has intensified, with an overnight attack in Beled Hawo, southern Somalia, resulting in the deaths of seven people, including six Ethiopian nationals. Responsibility for the attack remains unclaimed.