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ETHIOPIAN MILITARY FORCES END 12-YEAR PRESENCE IN SOMALIA
In a significant development, the Ethiopian National Defense Forces (ENDF) is set to withdraw from their key military base in Buur Hakaba, Somalia, an area that has been under their control for 12 long years. This strategic base has played a pivotal role in counter-terrorism operations in the region, particularly in countering the al-Shabaab militant group, which has been the target of Ethiopian military endeavors since 2011.
The Ethiopian military, under the leadership of Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed, has provided critical support to the Somali National Army in its fight against terrorism, a significant factor that has contributed to stability in the region. The presence of Ethiopian troops has enabled them to share intelligence, coordinate military operations, and offer military training to the Somali forces.
According to official sources, the Ethiopian military base at Buur Hakaba will be handed over to the Somali National Army, marking an important milestone in the country’s efforts to enhance its defense capabilities and take charge of its security affairs. The handover is seen as a significant step in the strengthening of Somalia’s sovereignty and reflects the country’s determination to protect its own territorial integrity.
The decision to withdraw from the base in Buur Hakaba is part of Ethiopia’s efforts to consolidate its military objectives and redefine its role in Somalia. Ethiopian forces have been active in Somalia since 2007, primarily to tackle the menace of al-Shabaab. However, as part of broader regional dynamics, Ethiopia seems to be recalibrating its military presence in Somalia.
In a statement, the Ethiopia Embassy in Mogadishu said, “The withdrawal is in line with the Ethiopian government’s long-held commitment to supporting the stability and security of Somalia. Ethiopia has always maintained that any military operation should be carried out by Somali security forces, with the understanding that they should be capable of taking ownership of security.”
The Somalian National Security Council has also welcomed the development, hailing the ENDF’s role in bolstering Somalia’s security capabilities. A senior Somali government official stated that the transfer of the base to Somali forces is a testament to the country’s capacity to defend its territorial sovereignty.
While Ethiopia’s military presence has undoubtedly provided significant support to the Somali forces, questions remain regarding security stability in Somalia following the withdrawal. However, Somali officials and international observers alike anticipate that the country’s military, though still building its capacity, can effectively take control of its security and continue operations against al-Shabaab.
The transfer of the Buur Hakaba base is a significant diplomatic victory for Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, who has pledged to strengthen his country’s security capabilities and take charge of its military and policing duties.
The implications of this move will be closely watched, particularly by Somalia’s regional neighbors, who will likely reassess their role and commitment in the region. This development will also test the capacity of Somali forces to independently combat regional security threats.