Tensions between Somalia and Ethiopia Reach a Boiling Point as President Accuses Ethiopia of Flooding and Arming Militias
Somalia’s President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud has made a shocking accusation against Ethiopia, claiming that the country is deliberately releasing water from its dams to cause flooding in Somalia. In an interview with The Economist, President Mohamud presented photographs of flooded areas in Somalia, attributing the flooding to Ethiopia’s alleged actions.
The Somali president also accused Ethiopia of funnelling arms to clan-based Somali militias near their shared border, expressing concern that these weapons could fall into the hands of al-Shabab, the jihadist group active in Somalia. He further accused Ethiopia of mobilising clan leaders and opposition politicians in Somalia against the potential deployment of Egyptian troops, suggesting that if pushed, Somalia could scratch the grievances of ethnic Somalis living in Ethiopia.
The accusation adds to the complex relationship between Somalia and Ethiopia, which has been strained since January when Ethiopia signed a memorandum of understanding with Somaliland, a region Somalia considers part of its territory. The situation has been further complicated by Egypt’s recent decision to send its second military aid shipment to Somalia, including heavy artillery and armored vehicles, as part of a defense pact signed between the two countries in August 2024.
The development has raised concerns in Ethiopia and Somaliland, with many wondering what the implications of these actions will be for the region. The Horn of Africa is already a volatile region, with many countries struggling with political instability, terrorism, and humanitarian crises. The escalation of tensions between Somalia and Ethiopia could have far-reaching consequences for the region and the international community.
As the situation continues to unfold, it remains to be seen how the two countries will respond to each other’s accusations and what the long-term implications will be for the region. One thing is certain, however: the relationship between Somalia and Ethiopia has reached a boiling point, and it will be up to the leaders of both countries to find a way to de-escalate the situation and work towards a more peaceful and stable future for the region.