Ayrotv.com- In recent months, President Emmanuel Macron’s administration has faced mounting criticism for its policies in several French-speaking African nations, particularly Mali, Chad, and Niger. As he embarks on a visit to Ethiopia amidst a backdrop of these failures, questions arise regarding the motivations behind this trip. The juxtaposition of Macron’s political crisis at home with his engagement in the Horn of Africa offers a complex narrative that intertwines history, diplomacy, and ethics.
At the heart of Macron’s visit is a historical debt that France owes to the Somali people, particularly stemming from the valour of the Somali Battalion during World War I and II. This battalion, comprised primarily of soldiers from the Awdal region of Somalia, played a significant role in liberating French territories from Nazi control, notably capturing the German military base at Fort de Douaumont This historical connection serves as a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made by these soldiers, who fought valiantly alongside French forces.
However, Macron’s government has been accused of undermining this legacy by supporting Ethiopia in ways that threaten Somalia’s territorial integrity. Reports of French military training for Ethiopian naval forces raise alarms about intentions to annexe historic Somali towns such as Zayla and Lughaya. Such actions not only violate Somalia’s sovereignty but also betray the shared history and kinship fostered through shared bloodshed during the world wars.
As many French-speaking African countries express their rejection of Macron’s policies, the question remains: what can he realistically bring to the Horn of Africa? The region is already fraught with political instability and economic challenges, and Macron’s presence may be viewed with scepticism rather than hope. The Awdal State Movement and the Gadaboursi people are keen to remind France of their shared history, urging the French public to recognize the bond forged through sacrifice and to reconsider their government’s actions that may endanger Somalia.
In conclusion, Macron’s visit to Ethiopia appears to be a complex manoeuvre, potentially driven by a mix of political desperation and historical obligation. The implications of this trip extend beyond mere diplomacy; they resonate deeply with issues of sovereignty, historical accountability, and the moral responsibilities of former colonial powers. As France navigates its troubled relationships in Africa, it must consider the long-term effects of its policies and the historical ties that bind nations together.
By: PROF. BURAALE XINIIN
