SA to host special WEF Summit in 2027

Source: Government of South Africa

SA to host special WEF Summit in 2027

The Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Ronald Lamola, has announced that South Africa will host a Special World Economic Forum (WEF) Summit in 2027.

Speaking at the recent World Economic Forum meeting in Davos, Switzerland, Lamola said that as Africa’s most industrialised economy and a key voice of the Global South, South Africa is uniquely positioned to convene global leaders to advance collective solutions to pressing global challenges

“South Africa’s leadership in climate diplomacy, renewable energy transition, digital transformation, and regional integration align closely to the World Economic Forum’s mission to improve the state of our world,” the Minister said.

World leaders from government, business, civil society and academia gathered in Davos from 19 to 23 January 2026 to engage in forward-looking discussions to address global issues and set priorities.

South Africa’s delegation to the 2026 WEF meeting held successful meetings with global investors, potential investors and business partners.

Led by the Minister of Finance, Enoch Godongwana, the meetings gave Team South Africa a valuable platform to highlight the country’s recent progress in implementing the reforms needed to unlock growth and generate much needed employment.

“When we came here in 2025, we presented our ambitious plan for driving economic reforms, building investor confidence and mobilising private investment. We returned in 2026 with concrete evidence of our progress. We returned not with promises, but with real successes,” Godongwana said on Friday.

In engagements with potential investors and business partners, the delegation highlighted the positive impacts of South Africa’s removal from the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) greylist and an upgrade of its sovereign credit rating by rating agency S&P Global as well as the structural reforms driven by Operation Vulindlela that have stabilised electricity supply, improved port and freight rail operations and lifted investment in infrastructure.

The Minister emphasised that government would deliver on its commitment to stabilise debt in the current fiscal year. 

“This signalled its commitment to the macroeconomic stability and consistent policy execution needed to create an environment for higher local and global investment. He also noted that the recent lowering of the inflation target would contribute to reducing costs across the economy and providing policy and price certainty for investors,” National Treasury said.

The WEF hosted a press conference at which Team South Africa reported on its 2025 G20 Presidency that culminated in a historic G20 Leaders’ Declaration.

“Our G20 Presidency offered an increasingly rare opportunity for economic cooperation and dialogue to rise above narrow self-interest, geopolitical rivalry and brinksmanship.

“We will continue to act a as credible mediator on key issues of debt relief, climate and infrastructure finance, global tax rules and the reform of multilateral institutions,” Godongwana said.

The Ministerial delegation consisted of Minister Lamola; Minister of Trade, Industry and Competition Parks Tau; Minister of Small Business Development Stella Tembisa Ndabeni; Minister of  Electricity and Energy Dr Kgosientsho Ramokgopa; and the Minister of Tourism Patricia de Lille. – SAnews.gov.za

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Gauteng rolls out more smart DLTCs

Source: Government of South Africa

Gauteng rolls out more smart DLTCs

The Gauteng Department of Roads and Transport is accelerating the roll out of Smart Driver Licence Testing Centres (DLTCs) across the province, bringing efficient, ethical and modern licensing services directly to communities while supporting the department’s road safety objectives.

Currently, operational Smart DLTCs include Atteridgeville, Denlyn, Maponya Mall, Centurion, Protea Glen and Midrand, with the Umphakathi Smart DLTC set to open soon, further expanding access to quality licensing services in townships and underserved areas.

“We are expanding Smart Licensing Centres to ensure services are closer to communities. These centres offer online, cashless services, with licence renewals taking approximately 10 minutes,” MEC for Roads and Transport Kedibone Diale-Tlabela said on Sunday.

According to the department, these cutting-edge facilities have redefined the licensing experience, providing unparalleled efficiency and convenience while significantly improving turnaround times for licence renewals and other services.

The Smart DLTCs are fully integrated into the eNaTIS administration system and are designed as hubs of licensing services, offering a comprehensive range of solutions, including vehicle license renewals, driving license applications, renewals and more.

The MEC said the roll out forms part of the provincial government’s “Smart Mobility Plan” under Growing Gauteng Together 2030 and supports broader road safety objectives.

“This is about more than convenience; it’s about road safety too. When licensing is accessible and corruption-free, more people get properly licensed instead of driving illegally or obtaining fake licences. Road safety starts with proper licensing,” Diale-Tlabela said.

The extension of Smart DLTCs into townships, informal settlements and hostels ensures quality services are available where people live, reducing the need for long journeys to distant licensing offices.

“These centres reduce backlogs, expand capacity, and respond effectively to the province’s renewal service demands. They also relieve congestion at traditional licensing offices, improving the system for everyone,” the MEC said.

The key features of the smart DLTCs include:

Saturday operations: Smart DLTCs operate Monday to Saturday, allowing working residents to access services at their convenience.

10-minute service: Using smart enrolment technology and cashless systems, licence renewals are processed in approximately 10 minutes.

Corruption-free: Appointment-only operations eliminate the need for runners. Law enforcement officials manage the centres, ensuring transparency and integrity.

Road safety: By making licensing accessible and eliminating corruption, the centres ensure drivers are properly tested and legally licensed (competent drivers), supporting the department’s “E Thoma Ka Wena” (It Starts With You) road safety campaign.

Job creation: The centres have created employment for young people from local communities, with the majority being women. -SAnews.gov.za

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Nkabinde Enquiry resumes hearings next week

Source: Government of South Africa

Nkabinde Enquiry resumes hearings next week

The enquiry into the fitness to hold office of Advocate Andrew Chauke will resume its hearing on Monday following its adjournment for the festive period.

The enquiry was established last year by President Cyril Ramaphosa in terms of section 12(6)(a) of the National Prosecuting Authority Act 32 of 1998 to inquire into the fitness of Advocate Andrew Chauke to hold the office of Director of Public Prosecutions.

“The forthcoming hearings mark the next phase of the enquiry’s work and are expected to feature testimony from witnesses led by the evidence leaders, as well as witnesses to be called by the legal team of Advocate Andrew Chauke, as the fact-finding process continues.

“The Nkabinde Enquiry expects that the National Director of Public Prosecutions, Advocate Shamila Batohi, who remains under oath, will resume her testimony. However, at this stage, it remains unclear whether she will return to the witness stand when the hearings resume,” a statement by the Enquiry said.

Following Advocate Batohi excusing herself from the proceedings, pending her acquiring legal counsel, the evidence leaders have written to her to enquire whether she will resume her testimony on 26 January 2026. 

No response has been received as of publication and any further developments in this regard will be communicated. – SAnews.gov.za

 

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Rand Water rejects claim the Vaal Dam has been poisoned

Source: Government of South Africa

Rand Water rejects claim the Vaal Dam has been poisoned

Rand Water has confirmed that consumers may continue to drink water directly from their taps safely.

This comes as claims that the Vaal Dam had been poisoned were circulated on social media.

A WhatsApp audio clip claimed that the “dam has been poisoned” and that tap water should not be consumed unless it is first boiled.

“Rand Water categorically dismisses these claims as false and misleading. Rand Water abstracts raw water from the Vaal Dam, which undergoes a comprehensive treatment process before being supplied to consumers.

“Vigorous and continuous testing is conducted on both the raw water and the treated bulk water prior to distribution to consumers, including municipalities,” Rand Water said on Saturday.

The bulk water services provider emphasised that that recent water quality results confirm that Rand Water’s treated bulk water supply fully complies with the South African National Standard for Drinking Water (SANS241).

Rand Water said it remains committed to protecting the health of consumers.

“Should any bulk water-related matter arise, Rand Water will communicate formally through its official communication channels. Customers and residents are encouraged to rely on Rand Water’s verified platforms for accurate and credible information regarding drinking water quality,” the entity said. – SAnews.gov.za

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Roads affected by floods in Mpumalanga

Source: Government of South Africa

Roads affected by floods in Mpumalanga

The South African National Roads Agency SOC Limited (SANRAL) has provided an update on the national roads that were affected by the recent heavy rains and flooding in Mpumalanga. 

According to SANRAL Mpumalanga’s Provincial Head, Mabuyi Mhlanga, the roads agency continues to closely monitor the situation by carrying out assessments at locations where it is safe to do so. 

“This is part of our ongoing efforts to ensure the safety of all road users. Where it is still unsafe, assessments will be conducted once the flood water has subsided. Routine Road Maintenance (RRM) teams are also on standby.

“We appeal to all road users to reduce speed, maintain safe following distances for those roads open to traffic, and avoid driving through flooded areas, as water depth and road conditions may not be visible,” Mhlanga said.

The recent update on the affected national roads is as follows:

Nkomazi Local Municipality:

  • The R582 at Coopersdal Road from N4 to R571 Intersection was damaged at the Komati River Bridge overtopped, R582 Section1. One way traffic flow is being maintained.

Thaba Chweu Local Municipality:

  • On the R37 Section 4 – location at Sabie/Nelspruit intersection to Mbombela Border – predominately from Km 24 at Brondaal old pump station to km 28. The damage includes  three slip failures in this section of the road, and wo-way traffic flow is maintained in both directions.
  • On the R36 Section 3 between Lydenburg and Bambi there is severe pavement deterioration along this section of the road.

Mbombela and Bushbuckridge Local Municipality:

  • On R40 Section 1 at the Bulembu Border there is drainage and structural failure, and one-way traffic flow is being maintained.
  • R40 Section 4 – location at Km19.4 between White River and Hazyview experienced a slip failure and culvert collapse. The contractor is on site.
  • R40 Section 4 at Km 27 between White River and Hazyview experienced a slip failure and culvert collapse. The contractor is on site.
  • There is a 24-hour stop and go traffic in place at R40 Section 5 at Km 30.4 between Bushbuckridge and Dwarsloop.
  • At the R40 Section 5, location Km 45 between Acornhoek and Dullstroom has a slip failure and culvert failure. Two-way traffic is maintained in both directions.
  • A 24 hour stop and go is in place R40 Section 5, location Km 50.4 between Dwarsloop and Acornhoek. –SAnews.gov.za

 

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Libya’s Energy Rebirth: $20B Investment, Gas Growth and Strategic Partnerships

Source: APO – Report:

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Libya’s energy sector is rebounding, attracting global investors and signaling a renewed commitment to production expansion, gas monetization and long-term partnerships. At the Libya Energy & Economic Summit (LEES) 2026 in Tripoli on Saturday, officials outlined a clear roadmap for growth, reform and regional collaboration.

$20 Billion Investment Pipeline

Libya’s oil production reached an average of 1.375 million barrels per day (bpd) in 2025 – the highest in years – and the government aims to reach 2 million bpd by 2030, backed by a $20 billion investment program.

“We witnessed the highest production rate in years, averaging 1.375 million bpd, which is a strong testimony to our recovery and stability,” said Minister of Oil and Gas Dr. Khalifa Abdulsadek. “We have launched a program with 15 companies, and we expect production to rise over the next five years with a $20 billion investment.”

Contract terms have been extended to 25 years, offering predictable, long-term investment conditions and aligning with global practices that support multi-decade upstream development.

Gas as a Growth Engine

Libya is prioritizing gas development to meet domestic power needs and support exports to Europe via the Greenstream pipeline. Gas production is expected to reach 700–750 million standard cubic feet per day in 2026.

“One of Libya’s greatest opportunities lies in its geographical location near one of the largest and most affluent markets in the world,” said Dr. Philip Mshelbila, Secretary General of the Gas Exporting Countries Forum. “With 750 million standard cubic feet per day expected this year, Libya can support domestic power, industry and export through the Greenstream pipeline to Europe.”

Regional and Global Partnerships

Libya is deepening cooperation with Egypt to strengthen North African energy security and resilience, leveraging Egypt’s liquefaction and export capacity alongside Libya’s growing gas output.

The Africa Energy Bank, led by the African Petroleum Producers Organization (APPO) and Afreximbank and ratified by Ghana and Nigeria, aims to bridge financing gaps for capital-intensive energy infrastructure projects, including initiatives like the proposed Libya–Algeria Power Interconnector.

“What applies to Libya and its neighboring countries also applies to any African oil and gas-producing nation – cooperation on transport, joint energy projects and infrastructure development is essential,” said Farid Ghezali, Secretary General, APPO, adding, “The partnership between Libya and Egypt is a strategic move that strengthens regional energy resilience and benefits global markets.”

Libya is also drawing lessons from regional peers such as Namibia, which has built investor confidence through transparent fiscal policies, predictable royalties and strong local content programs, and from Turkey, which is partnering with Libya to expand upstream production.

“Namibia is attractive for investors due to its clear regulatory framework, stable political environment and consistent engagement with the investment community,” said Namibia’s Deputy Minister of Industries, Mines and Energy, Gaudentia Kröhne. “Policies such as a 5% royalty and 35% production allocation to the state provide predictability and help ensure local benefits and skills transfer.”

“Turkey is engaged in Libya pursuing joint efforts and ambitious targets, as part of our broader strategy to become a billion-barrel oil and gas producer,” said Turkey’s Minister of Energy and Natural Resources, Alparslan Bayraktar. “In today’s geopolitical environment, diversification is crucial, and we are navigating these challenges through sustainable energy strategies and strong partnerships.”

African Energy Perspective

From a continental viewpoint, Libya’s recovery reinforces the broader African energy agenda: turning resource potential into projects, investment and industrial growth.

“Libya’s resurgence is a critical turning point for African energy, and it demonstrates how resource potential can be transformed into real projects, jobs, and industrial growth when stability and investment frameworks align. The momentum now must be sustained through partnership, transparency and deliverable-driven development,” said NJ Ayuk, Executive Chairman of the African Energy Chamber.

– on behalf of Energy Capital & Power.

Protection of persons with disabilities key amid severe weather conditions

Source: Government of South Africa

Protection of persons with disabilities key amid severe weather conditions

The Department of Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities has advocated for the protection of persons with disabilities against climate change as mandated by law and policy.

“The call for the protection of the rights of persons with disabilities in the changing climate follows the clarion call by the White Paper on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, which is calling for full inclusion of persons with disabilities in disaster risk reduction, climate adaptation, and sustainable development initiatives,” the department said on Sunday.

South Africa was recently affected by severe weather conditions and widespread flooding in various parts of the country and government responded by declaring a National Disaster under Section 23 of the Disaster Management Act of 2002 (Act No. 57 of 2002).

The severe weather, which included heavy rainfall, strong winds, lightning and flooding, impacted Limpopo, Mpumalanga, KwaZulu-Natal, Eastern Cape and the North West.

This extreme weather resulted in loss of life, significant damage to infrastructure and property, environmental degradation, the displacement of communities, disruptions to schooling and agricultural activities, and closures in parts of the Kruger National Park.

Mpumalanga recorded 20 fatalities, with over 1 300 houses, roads, and public infrastructure damaged. The death toll in Limpopo stands at 18.

“Persons with disabilities in South Africa are vulnerable to severe climatic events. This call is aligned with Article 11 of the United Nation Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, which obligates States to ensure their safety during risks like natural disasters and emergencies.

“Climate action that excludes persons with disabilities undermines these commitments and deepens inequality. South Africa continues to experience the escalating impacts of climate change, including severe storms, floods, droughts, and extreme heat.

“These impacts disproportionately affect persons with disabilities, who already face systemic barriers to access, participation, and protection. This has heightened the vulnerability of disabled communities to environmental conditions,” the department said.

Climate change is expected to exacerbate extreme weather events, increase the prevalence of diseases, and disrupt livelihoods.

“This is especially alarming for persons with disabilities, as they are particularly susceptible to the detrimental impacts of climate change. The disproportionate vulnerabilities that persons with disabilities face under changing climate conditions,” the department said. 

They include physical, social, economic, and institutional barriers that limit their ability to prepare for, respond to, and recover from climate-related emergencies.

“South Africa should protect persons with disabilities against climate change as mandated by law and policy. Article 11 of the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities obligates States to ensure their safety during risks like natural disasters and emergencies.

“Climate justice is disability justice. Building a climate-resilient South Africa requires inclusive planning, equal participation, and the protection of the rights and dignity of all, especially persons with disabilities,” the department said. – SAnews.gov.za

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Libya Energy & Economic Summit (LEES) 2026 Roundtables Highlight Renewed Global Investor Appetite for Libya

Source: APO

Libya is entering a new phase of energy development, defined by renewed investor confidence, stronger international partnerships and a clear focus on moving projects from ambition to execution. This momentum was on full display at the 2026 edition of the Libya Energy & Economic Summit (LEES), where high-level engagements with the United States, France, Italy and the United Kingdom underscored growing global appetite to invest in and partner with Libya across upstream, gas and power priorities. Through a series of targeted roundtable discussions, LEES 2026 delivered a clear message to international investors: Libya is open for business.

U.S.–Libya: Strategic Priority and Expanding Commercial Footprint

Libya was described as a “high priority” for the current U.S. administration during the U.S.–Libya Roundtable, with officials pointing to rising American investment, a growing presence of U.S. energy companies and the strategic importance of Libya’s upstream revival. Convened by the American Chamber of Commerce, the session highlighted opportunities linked to Libya’s ongoing licensing round and the National Oil Corporation’s multi-billion-dollar development program, with U.S. operators and service providers signaling continued commitment to production growth, technology deployment and workforce development.

France–Libya: Project Momentum and Institutional Cooperation

The France–Libya Roundtable, sponsored by Business France, highlighted both project-level progress and deeper institutional alignment. TotalEnergies confirmed it is targeting end-2026 final investment decisions for the North Gialo 6J oil development and the 500 MW Sadada solar project, reinforcing France’s dual focus on hydrocarbons and renewables in Libya. In parallel, the Libyan Council for Oil, Gas and Renewable Energy and Business France signed a memorandum of understanding to strengthen collaboration between French and Libyan companies, with a potential joint venture under consideration to support energy investment and project development.

Italy–Libya: From Hydrocarbons to Power Generation

Long-standing Italy-Libya energy ties were reinforced during the Italy-Libya Roundtable, where participants called for expanded cooperation across oil, gas and power generation. Italy was positioned as a natural partner for Libya’s next phase of growth, combining operating experience, engineering capacity and geographic proximity. Discussions highlighted ongoing gas developments, flaring-reduction initiatives and growing interest in electricity generation and infrastructure rehabilitation.

U.K.–Libya: Second Licensing Round Anchors Upstream Strategy

The U.K.–Libya Roundtable, convened by the Libya British Business Council, centered on Libya’s plans to launch a second upstream licensing round, positioning licensing continuity as a cornerstone of the country’s strategy to sustain production and attract long-term investment. Libya’s Minister of Oil and Gas, Dr. Khalifa Abdulsadek, said strong global interest in the current licensing round – launched in 2025, with results expected shortly – has reinforced confidence in maintaining a regular, structured approach to acreage offerings. He also highlighted parallel initiatives targeting marginal fields, unconventional resources and underexplored acreage.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Energy Capital & Power.

Media files

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Government welcomes Chery SA investment

Source: Government of South Africa

Government welcomes Chery SA investment

The Minister of Trade, Industry and Competition, Parks Tau, has welcomed the announcement of an investment by Chery South Africa in the automotive sector. 

This investment comes at the back of an agreement signed between Chery SA and Nissan South Africa to acquire the assets in Nissan’s Pretoria facility.

It also coincides with ongoing engagements by the dtic with the industry to revamp the automotive policy and support measures

“The South African automotive sector remains a key anchor industry for manufacturing and job creation. This acquisition by Chery SA is subject to regulatory approvals; after which details on the investment will be shared with the public,” the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition (the ditic) said.

Chery SA has committed to continue working with the ditic during the implementation phase of the process.

According to Nissan, the company and Chery SA reached agreement on the acquisition of Nissan’s manufacturing assets in Rosslyn, South Africa.

Subject to the fulfilment of certain conditions, including regulatory approvals, Chery SA will purchase the land, buildings and associated assets of the Nissan facilities, including its nearby stamping plant, in mid-2026.

The agreement will see the majority of associated Nissan employees offered employment by Chery SA on substantially similar terms and conditions.

Following the acquisition of the plant by Chery SA, Nissan will continue to offer vehicles and services to customers in South Africa, as before, with several new vehicle launches planned for fiscal year 2026 including the Nissan Tekton and Nissan Patrol.

“Through this agreement we’re able to secure employment for the majority of our workforce thereby also preserving opportunities for our supplier network. This move also ensures that the Rosslyn site will continue contributing to the South African automotive sector,” Nissan Africa President Jordi Vila said. – SAnews.gov.za

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Israel’s recognition of Somaliland: the strategic calculations at play

Source: The Conversation – Africa – By Federico Donelli, Associate Professor of International Relations, University of Trieste

Somaliland is not internationally recognised as a sovereign state, though it declared independence from Somalia in 1991. A territory becomes a sovereign state when its independence is recognised by the United Nations. For this reason, it has no seat at the UN and is considered, under international law, part of Somalia.

Nevertheless, Somaliland holds elections and maintains relative internal stability. It is also attracting increasing informal diplomatic engagement – though not formal recognition – from Ethiopia, the United States and, most recently, Israel.

This growing interest highlights a geopolitical paradox. An unrecognised polity has become strategically relevant in the Red Sea region, along the Gulf of Aden at the Horn of Africa. This is a key corridor linking the Mediterranean, the Middle East and the Indian Ocean.

On 26 December 2025, Israeli prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced Israel’s recognition of Somaliland as a sovereign state. This made Israel the first UN member to do so. While the concrete effects of the decision remain uncertain, Israel’s move fits into a broader strategy to strengthen its presence in the Horn of Africa and the Red Sea region.


Read more: Somaliland has been pursuing independence for 33 years. Expert explains the impact of the latest deal with Ethiopia


Of all the African states, landlocked Ethiopia has come closest to formally recognising Somaliland, driven by its wish to get direct access to the Red Sea via the port of Berbera. This has become more urgent amid regional competition and instability.

US officials have defended Israel’s right to recognise Somaliland, but the US itself hasn’t done so despite speculation that it might.

I have studied the political dynamics in the Horn of Africa and recently published a book on the competing interests in the Red Sea. For me, this latest development raises two key questions: what is Somaliland’s strategic importance and why the growing interest now?

In short, Somaliland is important because it is located on one of the world’s most critical maritime routes. Current regional instability has increased the importance of partners that can provide security, access and political stability, even without formal recognition.

Israel’s strategic calculation

Israel has framed its recognition of Somaliland primarily in terms of regional security and strategic stability. It has cited the need to safeguard maritime routes in the Red Sea and counter growing threats in the Horn of Africa.

Beyond these stated reasons, however, Israel is motivated by national security considerations. Following the 7 October 2023 attacks and Israel’s military campaign in Gaza, the importance of existing strategic priorities in the Red Sea region has increased.

Somaliland’s location on the Gulf of Aden puts the territory – and any external actors with a presence there – in a position to monitor some of the world’s most important maritime and undersea communication routes.

Of particular concern to Israel is the threat posed by Iran-aligned actors, such as Houthi fighters in nearby Yemen. Engaging with Somaliland provides strategic depth and the potential for an early warning system.

Iran has capacity to exert indirect influence through proxy forces that target maritime routes and regional security.

Attacks on shipping by Houthi missiles and drones launched from Yemen take place just a short distance from Somaliland.

Establishing a presence in Somaliland, or simply relying on it as a partner, would enhance Israel’s ability to monitor Houthi activities and counter threats to maritime traffic.

An increased presence also provides a counterweight to the growing influence of Saudi Arabia and Turkey through diplomatic, economic and – in Turkey’s case – military engagement across the region.

Israel and the UAE both view Somaliland as a relatively non-aligned actor capable of reducing Turkish and Saudi influence in the Horn of Africa.

For Israel, engaging with Somaliland is a calculated risk, based on the belief that the strategic benefits outweigh the diplomatic and political risks.

Ethiopia: the vital need for sea access

Ethiopia is another catalyst of Somaliland’s growing importance. Eritrea’s secession in 1993 made Ethiopia a landlocked country. At present it relies heavily on Djibouti for sea access.

The Red Sea region

The port of Berbera in Somaliland offers Ethiopia politically stable and geographically convenient access. This explains Ethiopia’s interest in signing a memorandum of understanding with the breakaway state in January 2024. Although the agreement has not been widely implemented, it has drawn international attention back to Hargeisa’s claims.

Ethiopia’s cautious approach has aimed at avoiding further regional tensions.

Domestic political factors also influence its tepid response. The country is dealing with several potentially secessionist insurgencies within its borders. There could be consequences for supporting a secessionist movement.

An additional factor is Ethiopia’s close political and economic relations with China and Turkey, which both strongly support Somali territorial integrity.

It is this combination of regional ambition and domestic constraint that explains Addis Ababa’s cautious response to Israel’s announcement.

The United States: balancing realism and norms

Washington officially continues to support Somalia’s territorial integrity, largely due to its counter-terrorism cooperation with the federal government in Mogadishu.

However, Israel’s recognition of Somaliland has reignited debate within US strategic and policy circles. Some favour Somaliland’s recognition. They point to US security interests and global trade.

There is growing openness to engaging with Somaliland incrementally, stopping short of fully breaking diplomatic ties with Mogadishu.

Much of the US debate focuses on recognition itself, but this risks missing the more consequential issue: the precedent Somaliland could set.

Not all that glitters is gold

The typical portrayal of Somalia as a failed state and Somaliland as a democratic oasis is simplistic.

Unlike many secessionist movements, Somaliland is not a newly formed political entity. Consequently, beneath its apparent internal cohesion lie deep and persistent fault lines. Hargeisa does not control all the territory it claims. The eastern regions have never entirely accepted Somaliland’s authority.

This cleavage came to a head in violent clashes in Las Anod between 2022 and 2023. Local militias took control of the area, which now functions as a self-administered entity recognised as a federal state within Somalia.


Read more: Somaliland crisis: delayed elections and armed conflict threaten dream of statehood


Somaliland’s growing strategic relevance masks its unresolved internal divisions. It illustrates a broader trend in geopolitics now: stability and utility increasingly matter more than legal status alone.

For external actors, engagement with Somaliland may offer short-term gains in a volatile region. But without addressing its internal fractures and contested sovereignty, recognition risks creating new sources of instability rather than resolving old ones.

– Israel’s recognition of Somaliland: the strategic calculations at play
– https://theconversation.com/israels-recognition-of-somaliland-the-strategic-calculations-at-play-273817