Under Türkiye’s mediation, Somalia and Ethiopia resolved a year-long diplomatic crisis that destabilized the Horn of Africa. President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, alongside Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud and Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed, announced the breakthrough in a joint press conference. Erdoğan emphasized:
“By overcoming misunderstandings and grievances, we have taken the first step toward a new beginning of peace and cooperation between Somalia and Ethiopia.”
“(Somalia-Ethiopia) Ensuring peace and stability in this distinguished corner of Africa is our fundamental expectation.”
“(Somalia-Ethiopia) I congratulate my esteemed brothers for their sacrifices in achieving this historic reconciliation and thank them for their constructive attitudes.”
“(Somalia-Ethiopia) I believe the agreed joint declaration, founded on mutual respect, will lay the groundwork for cooperation, economic development, and prosperity in the region.”
“(Somalia-Ethiopia) From now on, we will decide our next steps together and implement projects that will enhance the peace and prosperity of the people in this region.”
According to declaration seen by The Wall Africa Journal, the two countries will respect one another’s sovereignty. Unity, independence and territorial integrity.
They have also agreed to closely work together to finalise “mutually advantageous commercial arrangements and sustainable access to and from the sea under the sovereign authority of the federal republic of Somalia.”
The Root of the Crisis
The crisis began when Ethiopia signed a controversial agreement with Somaliland, a northern Somali region that declared unilateral independence in 1991, to secure sea access. This move sparked outrage in Somalia, which viewed Ethiopia as an occupier. Public resentment grew, fueling support for Al-Shabab militants. Somalia accused Ethiopia of attempting to divide the country and supplying arms to regional administrations—claims Ethiopia denied.
Somalia retaliated by recalling its ambassador and demanding Ethiopian troops under the African Union peace mission (ATMIS) leave by the year’s end. It also announced that Ethiopia would not be part of the new AU mission, AUSSOM, citing Ethiopia’s disregard for Somalia’s territorial integrity.
Egypt’s Role in the Crisis
Amid the tensions, Somalia deepened ties with Egypt, signing defense and economic agreements. Egypt, a long-time rival of Ethiopia, supported Somalia by supplying arms and emphasizing Somalia’s sovereignty. Ethiopia accused Egypt of exploiting the situation to destabilize the region. The neighboring Kenya tried to mediate but failed due to the level of crises in first month.
Türkiye’s Critical Role
Türkiye initiated the “Ankara Process” in May, holding two meetings separatedly at the foreign ministers’ level. The December 10 summit in Ankara brought the leaders together for face-to-face talks. As a trusted partner to both nations, Türkiye facilitated a historic agreement, addressing hostilities and restoring hope for stability in the Horn of Africa.
While the details of the agreement remain undisclosed, Türkiye’s mediation is seen as a turning point. It is expected to pave the way for cooperation, regional development, and lasting peace. Wall Africa Journal, will monitor its implementation closely and reveal all details as soon as possible.
