Somalia Roundup: Construction boom, airport seizure, medicinal strides

Diplomatic crisis with Ethiopia

The diplomatic crisis between Somalia and Ethiopia is escalating, primarily triggered by a memorandum signed by Ethiopia with Somaliland for access to the Red Sea. Tensions intensified following a cooperation agreement between Somalia and Egypt, which involved the deployment of Egyptian soldiers to Somalia. Ethiopian officials have accused Somalia of collaborating with external threats, particularly Egypt, while Somalia claims the Egyptian troops are for defensive purposes. Nova.news reports Somali Prime Minister Hamza Abdi Barre defended the troop deployment, asserting Somalia's right to seek security assistance while condemning Ethiopia's actions as violations of Somali sovereignty. Diplomatic relations are strained further, with Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud repeatedly refusing to meet Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed during a recent forum in Beijing.

Construction boom

Mogadishu is experiencing a construction boom, transforming its skyline but exacerbating inequality for the urban poor, including many displaced by war and climate shocks. Over 700,000 displaced individuals have settled in overcrowded informal settlements, facing forced evictions as land values rise due to gentrification fueled by wealthy investors. Some local authorities have cleared government lands to accommodate property development, further marginalising vulnerable communities. According to The New Humanitarian, The Somali government aims to address the needs of displaced communities through a National Durable Solution Strategy, but faces challenges due to inadequate funding, land ownership issues, and ongoing humanitarian crises. Activists emphasize the need for improved governance and inclusive urban planning to ensure that all residents have a voice in Mogadishu’s development.

Laboratory strategic plan

Somalia has developed its first-ever laboratory strategic plan, aimed at enhancing diagnostic capabilities and laboratory services in the country. Finalised through collaboration between Africa CDC and Somalia’s Federal Ministry of Health, the plan addresses critical gaps in lab infrastructure, personnel training, and supply management, while aligning with global standards like the International Health Regulations. The initiative is crucial for strengthening public health responses in Somalia, which has a history of health challenges due to resource limitations and a fragile health system. Africa CDC provided technical assistance and support from various specialists to create a costed implementation plan and identify funding sources for execution. This effort is seen as a significant milestone in building a resilient public health system in Somalia.

Missile and space rocket testing facility

Turkey is in discussions with Somalia to construct a missile and space rocket testing facility in the Horn of Africa, due to Somalia's strategic location for launches over the Indian Ocean. The country's proximity to the equator makes it an ideal candidate for a spaceport, enhancing the range and effectiveness of rocket launches. Turkey aims to bolster its ballistic missile program and enter the global space race. Turkish officials are hopeful for Somali approval, although the defence ministry declined to comment. News Central reports Turkey has been increasing its presence in Somalia through defence cooperation and infrastructure projects, as Somalia seeks to rebuild following years of conflict.

Ethiopian troops seize airports

Ethiopian troops have captured key airports in Somalia’s Gedo region—Luq, Dolow, and Bardere—to prevent the potential airlifting of Egyptian troops intended to replace Ethiopian forces in Jubaland and Hirshabelle. This strategic move aims to disrupt a deployment tied to a recent defence agreement between Somalia and Egypt. Relations between Ethiopia and Somalia have deteriorated further due to this and a controversial memorandum regarding Red Sea access. As reported by Nova.news, tensions are also fueled by the ongoing dispute over Ethiopia's Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam, which Egypt opposes. Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud has notably refused to meet with Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed during recent events, reflecting heightened diplomatic strains.