According to historians, from the ambitious reign of Emperor Tewodros II in the mid-19th century to the current administration, the pursuit of a direct outlet to the Sea has remained a remarkably consistent, almost foundational, element of Ethiopia’s strategic outlook.
From Emperor Tewodros II, to various Ethiopian leaders, including Emperors Menelik II, Haile Selassie I, and the Derg regime, each, in their own way, prioritized the issue.
Emperor Menelik II’s policies and treaties often involved efforts to secure or influence coastal territories. Then Haile Selassie’s sophisticated diplomacy navigated the complex geopolitics of the Horn of Africa, consistently advocating for Ethiopia’s right to utilize ports, notably Massawa and Assab, which were then part of Eritrea, a federated entity with Ethiopia.
The Derg, despite its ideological leanings, also maintained a fierce commitment to preserving Ethiopia’s access to these ports, leading to prolonged conflict. However, the rule of the EPRDF (1991-2018) marked a distinct departure.
Following Eritrea’s independence in 1993 and the subsequent border war, Ethiopia became entirely landlocked. The EPRDF government, under Prime Minister Meles Zenawi, shifted its focus towards robust economic growth through internal development and a reliance on the port of Djibouti, fostering what was often described as a Djibouti-centric foreign policy.
While pragmatic and largely successful in facilitating trade, this period saw a de-emphasis, at least publicly, on the direct acquisition of sovereign sea access. The narrative shifted to one of regional economic integration and efficient utilization of existing port facilities through bilateral agreements.
Moreover, with Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed (PhD), the historical imperative has reemerged with renewed strength. The recent statements and diplomatic overtures regarding sea access have brought the issue back to the forefront of national discourse, moving both domestic support and regional integration.
Whether through port ownership, lease agreements, or other innovative solutions, the say goes around that Ethiopian leaders will remain consistent in their pursuit of sea access appears to be more than just a saying, it is a fundamental pillar of the nation’s identity and its vision for the future
The enduring nature of this foreign policy objective highlights a deeply held national conviction, that true prosperity, security, and strategic autonomy for Ethiopia are inseparably linked to a direct and reliable connection to the global maritime commons.
As known that recently the tensions of East Africa significantly rises due to the increasing demand for unshared resources like water and arable land, fueled by population growth and economic development.
These tensions are often compounded by disparities in governance and resource management across borders. While regional governments are making strides in securing their frontiers, many lack the capacity to effectively manage vast, remote border areas. According to some Researchers thoughts, a collaborative win-win approach is crucial to resolving these issues and fostering long-term cooperation.
In this regards, landlocked nations, Ethiopia and other nations in the region like Uganda heavily depend on their neighbors for maritime trade. Agreements allowing these countries to use ports in coastal nations like Eritrea or Kenya could boost trade for landlocked states and increase port revenues for coastal countries, benefiting all involved.
For a landlocked nation of over 120 million people, the absence of a sovereign port has long been perceived as a significant economic and strategic vulnerability. This deeply ingrained belief has shaped diplomatic engagements, regional alliances, and even internal political discourse for generations.
Effective dialogue and regional partnerships are essential to developing fair agreements that acknowledge the needs of all parties. By prioritizing collaborative resource management and sustainable practices, East African countries can reduce conflicts and promote shared prosperity.
The recent Ethiopia’s pursuit of seaport access is vital for its economic development and regional stability, reinforcing its role as a stabilizing force committed to collective success in the Horn of Africa.
Some Experts advocated that nations bordering the Red Sea should favorably consider Ethiopia’s bid for sea access, viewing it as a critical step toward fostering regional stability through cooperative efforts.
Addis Alemayehu, a Multilateral Affairs Researcher at the Institute of Foreign Affairs (IFA), highlighted the Red Sea’s vulnerability to various illicit activities, including piracy, illegal human trafficking, and illicit arms smuggling.
He emphasized that these unlawful operations could significantly destabilize the region and pose security threats to Ethiopia and its neighbors.
Addis cited the presence of trans-national terrorist groups, including Al-Shabaab, operating in the Red Sea region as an example, emphasizing that this necessitates enhanced peacekeeping efforts to counter such threats.
As a result, countries in the region can eliminate this threat by forming an alliance and conducting a coordinated campaign. According to the Researcher, if Ethiopia’s request for sea access is granted, it will significantly contribute to regional and local peace by curbing the activities of such groups.
In his parts, Senesa Demse, a Lecturer and Researcher in Political Science and International Relations at Ambo University, argued that Ethiopia’s landlocked status has hindered its ability to closely monitor the Red Sea’s political and economic dynamics.
He specifically mentioned the severe inhumane acts committed by human traffickers against migrants crossing the Red Sea.
Senesa also highlighted the prevalence of piracy, stressing the need for integrated peace and security operations to prevent these issues. “Ethiopia, with its extensive experience in peace and security operations in the region, should be given the opportunity to contribute once its sea access request is granted.”
Senesa asserted that Ethiopia, with its extensive experience in regional peace and security operations, should be empowered to contribute once its request for sea access is granted.
He argued that it is unfair for Ethiopia, located just 60 kilometers from the sea, to be excluded from Red Sea activities, especially when numerous countries across continents to operate there.
Senesa advised the Ethiopian government to make resolute decisions regarding sea access and urged neighboring countries to respond positively, emphasizing the benefits of regional integration and shared development.
On July 3, 2025, Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed (PhD) addressed questions from Members of Parliament, reiterating that Ethiopia’s pursuit of sea access is grounded in peaceful negotiation and respect for sovereignty.
He underscored Ethiopia’s status as a sovereign nation with a substantial and growing economy, an expanding population, and a capable modern army. Prime Minister Abiy expressed confidence that despite ongoing historical and contemporary challenges, Ethiopia will continue to persevere, prosper, and advance.
BY FIKADU BELAY
THE ETHIOPIAN HERALD THURSDAY 24 JULY 2025
