Positioned on the easternmost part of the African continent, the Horn of Africa is composed of Ethiopia, Eritrea, Somalia and Djibouti; broader definitions also include parts or all of Kenya, Sudan, South Sudan, and Uganda.
The peninsula, as a whole, faces a combination of complex political, security, and socioeconomic challenges that contribute to the volatility and complexity of the region.
Djibouti is not the only country in the region that experienced increased interest by foreign powers. The United Arab Emirates has established a military presence in Eritrea and Somaliland. The latter declared its secession from Somalia.
Somalia houses a Turkish military training facility. Turkey may build a naval dock for military use in neighboring Sudan.
Eritrea also accommodates military installations operated by Russia. Russia is a major arms supplier to the African continent and is actively pursuing permanent bases in Sudan and other countries on the continent, such as Libya.
The Horn of Africa region has a history of conflicts, including border disputes, ethnic tensions, and separatist movements. Ongoing conflicts, such as those in Somalia and Sudan, contribute to the volatile nature of the region. Meanwhile, the recent fighting in Ethiopia has destabilized its neighboring countries.
The region also shares a maritime border with Yemen, a country grappling with a complex internal conflict.
The presence of terrorist groups, such as Al-Shabaab and other extremist organizations, poses security challenges in the region. These groups can disrupt stability and hinder transparency in affected areas.
The Horn of Africa region, particularly the coast of Somalia, has been notorious for piracy incidents in the past. Maritime security concerns, including illegal fishing and smuggling, contribute to the challenges faced in ensuring transparency and security in the maritime domain.
The Horn of Africa is a region with significant refugee and migration flows, often triggered by conflicts, political instability, and economic challenges. These movements of people can strain resources, create social tensions, and impact the overall stability of the region..
