Southwest State at a Strategic Crossroads: Ethiopia Out, Egypt In-What Could It Mean for Regional Security? - Borkena

The Southwest State of Somalia may be approaching a significant strategic realignment, one that could have far-reaching implications for both Somalia and the wider Horn of Africa. For years, Ethiopian forces have played a central role in securing key installations, including Baidoa Airport, as well as border areas across the region.

Their presence has reflected Ethiopia’s longstanding security interests along its extensive frontier with Somalia, where stability has been viewed as essential to the national security of both countries.

One of the most debated issues during the tenure of former Southwest State President Abdiaziz Mohamed Hassan (Laftagareen) was the reported proposal to replace Ethiopian troops with Egyptian forces.

Political observers have argued that Laftagareen consistently opposed such a move despite mounting political pressure. Some analysts have further suggested that his position became one of several factors shaping the political dynamics that ultimately led to a change in the state’s leadership.