Mmegi

Horn of Africa and the geopolitics of seaports

When Ethiopia’s Prime Minister revived his call for sea access in early 2024, regional headlines lit up overnight. It was not just about trade or logistics, at least not entirely. It reopened a decades-old wound, the kind that never really heals in the Horn of Africa: who controls the coast, and what that means for everyone else.

Thirty years following Eritrean independence, Ethiopia’s maritime ambition forced an old question back into view.

Will port infrastructure foster regional harmony or merely intensify tensions under the guise of economic development?

Editor's Comment
Diplomatic relations must be on equal footing

“Let us never negotiate out of fear.But let us never fear to negotiate”– John F. KennedySupport for healthcare, education, skills and infrastructure can improve lives. The reaffirmed commitment to the Mmopane–Block 8 road is welcome for the prospect of better transport links for surrounding communities.China has shown willingness to assist Botswana, and government deserves credit for securing these commitments. However, the success of our...

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