Neighborhood Must Embrace Ethiopia's Maritime Needs as Pillar of Pan-Africanism, Regional Unity: Edgar Githua

On April 9, 2025, ENA reported from Addis Ababa that Dr. Edgar Githua, an international relations, diplomacy, and security analyst, emphasized the importance of neighboring nations in the Horn of Africa granting Ethiopia coastal access based on principles of Pan-Africanism and regional collaboration.

Edgar Githua, who teaches international relations and diplomacy at Strathmore University in Nairobi, Kenya, offered a perceptive examination of the pros and cons associated with increased military presence in the Horn of Africa along with the rising count of seaports in this area.

He highlighted that the Horn of Africa has turned into the most heavily militarized zone globally, with various nations—particularly major international players—setting up over a dozen military installations across the area.

As per Githua, these external entities pursue their distinct economic, geopolitical, and security objectives within the area.

He noted that the presence of foreign military bases in the Horn of Africa is a double-edged sword.

Githua stated that while the deployment of foreign military forces can help combat organized crime such as terrorism and piracy, it also introduces risks associated with increased militarization for nations in the area.

He cautioned that if world powers desire specific accords with these countries and those terms are not fulfilled, the military installations might be employed as leverage or to spark confrontation.

Edgar Githua explored the expansion of seaports from dual viewpoints. He highlighted that a rise in seaport development could significantly benefit African countries by establishing new trading pathways and allowing them to broaden their export reach into both Asian and European markets.

Nevertheless, the intervention of international entities presents a difficulty. Should these worldwide players aim for full dominion over these harbors, it might compromise the autonomy and financial self-sufficiency of nearby countries.

Ethiopia, which stands as the planet’s biggest landlocked nation and is part of the Horn of Africa region, does not have direct maritime access.

In the meantime, outside forces have managed to acquire ports in the area for both business and strategic defense objectives.

Edgar Githua promoted the idea that nearby nations in the Horn of Africa should provide Ethiopia with coastal rights, emphasizing Pan-African values and collaborative regional efforts.