A once-dormant topic has surged to the forefront of Ethiopian national discourse: the nation’s landlocked status and the urgent need for sea access. Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed’s sustained efforts to address this long-taboo subject have ignited a nationwide conversation, garnering broad support from political parties and diverse segments of the population.
The growing consensus centers on the undeniable economic and strategic imperative of securing a maritime gateway. As Ethiopia boasts one of the world’s fastest-growing economies and a rapidly expanding population, the limitations imposed by its landlocked position have become increasingly apparent.
The notion of the “sea access isn’t a luxury; it’s a necessity,” echoed by different individuals including the prime minister. It also disclosed the ambition of accessing sea is about ensuring sustainable economic growth, diversifying our trade routes, and safeguarding the countries national interests.
It is known that Ethiopia is relying solely on neighboring Djibouti for port access so this may have its own barriers. Congestion, logistical bottlenecks, and fluctuating geopolitical dynamics have underscored the vulnerability inherent in this single port dependency. Alternative routes and access points are seen as crucial for bolstering Ethiopia’s trade capacity and ensuring its economic resilience.
The need for diversified sea access is not merely about facilitating imports and exports. It is also about securing a strategic advantage in the Horn of Africa, a region marked by competing interests and evolving security landscapes. The ability to project power and protect national interests within the maritime domain is viewed as a critical component of Ethiopia’s long-term security strategy.
The issue has also attracted significant attention from the international community. Diplomats and analysts have acknowledged the legitimate concerns of a rapidly developing nation seeking to overcome geographical constraints. Many recognize that providing Ethiopia with viable sea access options could contribute to regional stability and economic integration.
The country is offering reciprocal mechanisms that benefit both Ethiopia and the countries providing its sea access. This initiative is also supported by competing parties. In recent interview with The Ethiopian Herald Gebru Berhe, Chairman of the Ethiopia Democratic Union (EDU) party, emphasized that securing sea access is a matter of national survival. “From the very beginning, our party has opposed Ethiopia’s loss of sea access,” Gebru stated. He referenced past petitions to the United Nations, highlighting Ethiopia’s historical rights and the critical need for a port to serve its 130 million citizens. “Our party wholeheartedly supports the current Prime Minister’s initiative to secure sea access.”
However, Gebru also warned of “arch foes” attempting to exclude Ethiopia from the Red Sea, a concern amplified by recent regional developments. He specifically pointed to reports of Egypt’s deployment of troops to Somalia, urging the Ethiopian government to “closely monitor” the situation.
Gebru suggested this move could be a retaliatory measure following Egypt’s “unsubstantiated accusations” regarding the Nile River. He stressed the importance of strengthening Ethiopia’s defense capabilities.
“Our defense mechanisms must be strong and ready to counter any entities that attempt to suffocate or attack us,” he stated.
He further elaborated that securing sea access is not solely for trade purposes but also for establishing a naval presence. “Acquiring sea access is not just about facilitating import and export; it should also provide a base for our navy,” he explained, emphasizing the need to protect national interests and ensure regional security. He advocated for a “reciprocal agreement” with neighboring countries to secure at least one sea access point.
The EDU Chairman also noted growing international support and emphasized the feasibility of achieving sea access through existing legal frameworks. He called for unified political support for this national objective.
Netsanet Tasew, member of Addis Ababa Political Party council, echoed the sentiment of seeking peaceful solutions. “No party wishes to interfere in another country’s sovereignty; we seek only to negotiate with neighboring countries for multiple port access,” he said. Netsanet affirmed his party’s support for agreements that benefit the country and are achieved through peaceful means.
Professor Admasu Gebeyehu, in a recent interview with the Ethiopian Press Agency (EPA), clarified that Ethiopia’s pursuit of a sea port is grounded in mutually beneficial exchange, not a demand for free access.
“Ethiopia did not ask for a port for free,” Professor Admasu stated. “The request was made in accordance with the principle of give and take.”
He addressed concerns regarding potential foreign military presence in the Red Sea, asserting Ethiopia’s legitimate need for maritime access as a major regional player. “There is no reason to be concerned regarding Ethiopia’s sea access request,” he argued, “especially given that various countries from distant locations have established military bases in the Red Sea. Ethiopia needs to connect with the rest of the world by sea.”
Highlighting Ethiopia’s significant size and population, Professor Admasu emphasized the port’s necessity for national development. “Most countries recognize Ethiopia as the largest country in the Horn of Africa,” he noted. “With 132 million citizens, ranking 10th globally in population, and a population that doubles every 25 years, sea access is a matter of survival for Ethiopia.”
He further contended that a thriving Ethiopian port would stimulate regional economies by expanding markets, and dismissed concerns that a strengthened Ethiopian navy poses a threat. “If Ethiopia gains a sea port and benefits, neighboring countries will indirectly expand their markets and benefit without facing problems,” he said. “The notion that establishing a navy is a threat is incorrect.”
Professor Admasu stressed the need for a naval force to protect Ethiopia’s maritime interests from piracy and other threats. “The country has resources and assets that move through the port. We need a trained military navy to protect these resources and defend against piracy,” he stated.
He also addressed Ethiopia’s diplomatic efforts. “Ethiopia has no history of seizing another’s land by force. The recent discussions with Somaliland are part of ongoing efforts to engage with various seaport owners, both near and far,” he explained. “It is appropriate and necessary to continue dialogue with all our neighbors regarding sea access.”
Professor Admasu criticized those who oppose Ethiopia’s port aspirations, given the presence of distant nations establishing Red Sea bases. “It is inconsistent to object to Ethiopia’s request for a seaport, when many countries from far away are establishing bases, and Ethiopia is less than a hundred kilometers from the Red Sea,” he concluded.
Moreover, the rising tide of public support, coupled with increasing international recognition, suggests that the issue of sea access will remain a central pillar of Ethiopia’s national agenda for the foreseeable future. The nation’s economic prosperity and strategic security may well hinge on its ability to navigate this complex and crucial endeavor.
BY EYUEL KIFLU
THE ETHIOPIAN HERALD TUESDAY 11 MARCH
