The Ethiopia-Somaliland Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) marks a crucial turning point in the Horn of Africa’s geopolitical landscape. By securing direct maritime access via Somaliland’s coastline, Ethiopia seeks to reduce its dependency on Djibouti, enhance trade competitiveness, and establish a strategic foothold in the Red Sea. However, Somalia’s opposition, backed by external actors such as Turkey, threatens to complicate the deal. As regional and global powers vie for influence, Ethiopia’s decision will shape its economic future and determine its status as a dominant force in East Africa.







