BAIDOA, Somalia – Ethiopian forces have laid the foundation for a new military base near Baidoa, marking a significant expansion of Ethiopia’s military presence in Somalia’s Bay and Bakool regions. The establishment of this base, attended by South West Security Minister Hassan Abdulqadir and high-ranking Ethiopian officials, reflects deepening military cooperation between Ethiopia and the South West State amidst ongoing security challenges.

The base comes as Ethiopian troops, part of the African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS), increase their operations into smaller, previously untouched villages. This strategic deployment is aimed at strengthening counter-insurgency efforts, particularly in regions under threat from Al-Shabaab. Despite Ethiopia’s growing military footprint, tensions between Somalia and Ethiopia have risen, particularly after Ethiopia’s controversial maritime agreement with Somaliland, which has been met with resistance from Somalia.

These developments occur against a backdrop of strained relations between the two countries, as Somalia pushes for a reduction in foreign military presence, including Ethiopian forces, in line with ATMIS’s planned withdrawal. However, Ethiopia’s military presence remains entrenched, suggesting no immediate plans to scale back operations.

In response to these tensions, Somalia has signed a security agreement with Egypt, signaling a shift in regional alliances. The agreement includes the deployment of thousands of Egyptian troops to Somalia, potentially positioning them to assume roles currently held by ATMIS forces, including Ethiopian soldiers. This move highlights the growing complexity of the Somalia-Ethiopia relationship as both nations navigate shifting security dynamics in the Horn of Africa.