By LJDemissie
September 1, 2024
Ethiopia, a landlocked nation with a rich history and rapidly growing economy, has long sought to regain access to her Red Sea. This quest is not merely a matter of convenience but a strategic necessity for the over 120 million Ethiopians’ economic and security interests.
The Importance of Sea Access
Economic Growth: Access to a port would increase trade efficiency, reduce transportation costs, and attract foreign investment, creating jobs and stimulating economic growth. For example, a study by the World Bank estimates that a 10% increase in port efficiency can lead to a 2.5% increase in GDP.
National Security: Establishing a naval base would enhance Ethiopia’s ability to protect its maritime interests, secure its borders, and participate in regional security initiatives. This would also enable Ethiopia to contribute to international peacekeeping efforts.
Regional Influence: Sea access would strengthen Ethiopia’s geopolitical influence in the region, allowing it to play a more prominent role in regional affairs and foster stronger ties with neighboring countries.
Wasted Potential of the Red Sea Resources
The Red Sea, stretching from Eritrea to Somalia, is rich in untapped resources that hold immense economic potential. However, political maneuvers aimed at undermining Ethiopia’s economic needs by keeping it landlocked have led to the underdevelopment of these resources. The geopolitical tensions and conflicts in the region have not only hindered Ethiopia’s access to the sea but have also stunted the growth and development of Eritrea and Somalia.
These nations, instead of harnessing the wealth of the Red Sea to foster regional prosperity, remain mired in political strife. The international community, including the African Union must recognize the detrimental impact of these political actions and support efforts to unlock the Red Sea’s resources for the benefit of all nations in the region.
Historical Context: Egypt’s Destabilizing Efforts
Egyptian leaders have historically sought to destabilize Ethiopia to secure control over the waters of the Abbay River (Blue Nile). Despite not contributing a drop of water to the river, Egypt’s leaders have consistently opposed Ethiopia’s efforts to utilize its own water resources for development. This long-standing tension underscores the need for a peaceful and cooperative approach to resolving regional disputes.
Addressing Concerns
Some may argue that Ethiopia’s quest for sea access could lead to conflict with neighboring countries. However, Ethiopia has consistently demonstrated its commitment to peaceful resolution and cooperation. In fact, Ethiopia has been a key player in regional peacekeeping efforts and has contributed thousands of troops to international peacekeeping missions. Over the last few decades, thousands of Ethiopian peacekeepers have been martyred for the peace and security of the Somalia people, protecting them and the world from the Al-Shabaab terrorist group.
Somaliland’s Independence Quest
While the issue of the self-declared republic of Somaliland and the recently signed Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between Somaliland and Ethiopia is complex and contentious, it is essential to recognize the region’s strategic importance. PM Abiy Ahmed said, “The MOU shall pave the way to realize the aspiration of Ethiopia to secure access to the sea and diversify its access to seaports.” A stable and prosperous Somaliland and Somalia would benefit the entire region, and Ethiopia’s quest for sea access could potentially provide economic benefits to both as well. Note: The author supports a united, strong, and prosperous Somalia.
Conclusion
Ethiopia’s quest for sea access is a strategic necessity that would bring significant economic and security benefits to the nation. By pursuing this goal through peaceful means and cooperation, Ethiopia can ensure a brighter future for its people and the entire Horn of Africa. The international community must support Ethiopia’s legitimate aspirations while condemning any attempts to destabilize the region for narrow self-interests.
The writer, LJDemissie, can be reached at LJDemissie@yahoo.com or @LJDemissie (Twitter).
Our sovereign right over Abay can be ensured in two ways: the first is through cooperation with all stakeholders but this is difficult and may be unsustainable; the second is by making sure that Ethiopia is a peaceful and powerful nation, and this can be done if our learned elite stand for our common cause and quit short-sighted gains based on tribal and religious pursuits. Powerful America, where most of you live and work comfortably, is multi-ethnic and democratic, and so are most rich European countries.
Ethiopia is not land locked! Rather it is Brain locked!