Published: 24/09/2025 – 14:19 GMT+2 • Updated: 14:38
Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud has dismissed concerns that Egyptian and Ethiopian troops deployed under the African Union mission could clash inside Somalia, stressing that his country will not become a battleground for regional rivalries.
Egyptian peacekeepers are expected to join the African Union Somalia peacekeeping mission (AUSSOM) in the coming weeks. The mission, which replaced the African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS) in January 2025, also includes Ethiopian forces.
Addis Ababa has voiced strong opposition to Cairo’s participation, citing deep diplomatic tensions over the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD) on the Nile River. Egypt fears the dam will reduce its vital share of Nile waters, while Ethiopia insists the project is crucial for its development.
Speaking to the BBC, President Mohamud said the deployment of both nations’ troops poses no threat of confrontation.
“There will be no proxy war between Egypt and Ethiopia on Somali soil,” Mohamud stated. “The troops will be stationed hundreds of kilometres apart. I see no reason for Egypt to disturb Ethiopia, nor for Ethiopia to interfere with the Egyptian forces.”
Somalia has hosted African Union peacekeepers since 2007 to help counter al-Shabaab, the al-Qaida-linked militant group responsible for frequent deadly attacks. The previous mission formally ended in December 2024 before being succeeded by AUSSOM.
Egypt offered last year to contribute forces, following a security agreement with Mogadishu that included weapons and ammunition deliveries. That move sparked a sharp backlash from Ethiopia, which is already at odds with Somalia over Somaliland.
In January 2024, Ethiopia signed a memorandum of understanding with Somaliland to lease coastal land for a naval base. In exchange, Addis Ababa pledged to recognise Somaliland’s independence — a step Somalia rejects as a violation of its sovereignty.
The overlapping disputes highlight the fragile dynamics of the Horn of Africa, where historical grievances and strategic rivalries continue to shape regional politics.
This article really highlights the tense situation in the Horn of Africa. Its frustrating to see how disputes between Somalia, Ethiopia, and Somaliland keep escalating. The security agreement and the reaction from Ethiopia show how easily tensions can flare up. The idea of Ethiopia leasing land to Somaliland in exchange for recognition of its independence is a complex move with far-reaching consequences. Its clear that historical grievances and strategic interests are deeply intertwined here. The article does a good job of showing the fragile balance in the region. It makes you wonder what the long-term implications will be for all involved, especially the people living there. The situation demands careful handling to avoid further instability.