Ayrotv.com-Djibouti- Since the fall of Somalia’s military regime in 1991, the political landscape of the Horn of Africa has been profoundly altered, with Djibouti under President Ismail Omar Guelleh playing a controversial role in Somalia’s internal affairs. This article delves into Djibouti’s strategic political gamesmanship, particularly concerning the Awdal region, historically recognized as the territory of the Gadaboursi clan.
A- Historical Context and Territorial Claims
Awdal region, home to the Gadaboursi, has seen demographic shifts and political intrigues since the collapse of Somalia’s central government. While the Issa and Gabooye clans are present in Awdal, they represent a small fraction of the population—approximately 8%. However, the Djibouti regime’s political strategy has sought to elevate the status of the Issa tribe, which is closely linked to Guelleh’s own heritage.
One of the most contentious moments in this political game was the Arta Conference in 2000, where Guelleh’s government exploited the fragile political climate to secure an unprecedented arrangement. The conference delegates were persuaded to allocate nine parliamentary seats to the Issa tribe—a move that not only disregarded the demographic realities of Awdal but also raised questions about the legitimacy of such political gifts. This manoeuvre has been criticized as an attempt to solidify Djibouti’s influence in Somalia by empowering a tribe that has historically been a minority in the region.
B- Land Grabs and Resource Exploitation
The Djibouti regime’s ambitions extend beyond political representation; they have also involved economic exploitation, particularly in the Awdal region. Reports indicate that Djibouti has allowed its citizens to cross the border illegally to extract resources, notably sand from the Giriyad area. This activity not only undermines the economic stability of Awdal but also poses a significant threat to the environmental integrity of the region.
By facilitating such illicit activities, the Djibouti government is accused of attempting to annexe parts of Awdal, further exacerbating tensions between clans and threatening the territorial sovereignty of Somalia. The regime’s actions are seen as a calculated effort to maintain a status quo that favours Djibouti’s interests rather than contributing to the stabilization of Somalia.
C- The Importance of Vigilance
As Djibouti continues to meddle in Somalia’s internal affairs, it is imperative for the Somali people to remain vigilant against these threats. The actions of foreign and local actors, driven by self-interest rather than the collective good, pose existential risks to Somalia’s sovereignty and territorial integrity. It is crucial for Somalis to unite against any attempt to disrupt their national unity and to safeguard their land from external encroachments.
In conclusion, the political games played by the Djibouti regime since 1991 highlight a broader struggle for power and resources in the Horn of Africa. As Somalia navigates its complex political landscape, the historical context of territorial claims, the implications of foreign interventions, and the need for national solidarity are more relevant than ever. The Somali people must stand firm against any actions that threaten their sovereignty, ensuring a future that honors their history and territorial rights.
By: BURAALE XINIIN
