- Somalia proposes granting the U.S. control over critical air bases and ports.
- The move aims to strengthen Washington’s military presence in the Horn of Africa.
- Inclusion of Berbera stirs tensions with Somaliland, which rejects the proposal.
- Somalia and Somaliland remain at odds over sovereignty and international partnerships.
Somalia has signaled its willingness to grant the United States exclusive control over crucial air bases and ports, a move that could significantly enhance Washington’s military presence in East Africa.
According to a letter from President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud to former U.S. President Donald Trump, Somalia has offered access to air bases in Balidogle and Berbera, along with the ports of Berbera and Bosaso. The proposal, dated March 16, was reportedly verified by a regional diplomat and seen by Reuters.
If accepted, the deal would boost U.S. strategic positioning in the fight against Islamist militants, reinforcing military and logistical operations across the region.
Somaliland Rejects Berbera Offer, Calls Somalia ‘Unstable’
However, the inclusion of Berbera, which lies within Somaliland, has sparked immediate resistance from the self-declared independent region.
Somaliland’s Foreign Minister, Abdirahman Dahir Aden, dismissed Somalia’s offer, claiming the U.S. prefers working with Somaliland due to its stability and governance record.
“What cooperation? The U.S. abandoned this corrupt Somali regime. They are now ready to work with Somaliland, a peaceful and democratic state,” Aden told Reuters.
He further stated that Washington understands the strategic value of Berbera and is unlikely to negotiate through Mogadishu.
Strategic Military and Maritime Hubs in Play
The proposed deal highlights key military and trade hubs:
- Balidogle Air Base – Located 90 km northwest of Mogadishu, it is a major military installation.
- Bosaso Port – Situated in Puntland, a semi-autonomous region, it serves as a critical maritime gateway.
- Berbera Port & Air Base – A contested asset in Somaliland, seen as vital for U.S. regional operations.
In the letter, Somalia reportedly emphasized that these locations offer a strategic advantage for American forces, securing uninterrupted access while preventing foreign powers from expanding influence in the region.
Diplomatic Fallout Looms
With Somalia and Somaliland already locked in a long-standing dispute over sovereignty, this latest development could further strain relations.
As of now, Somalia’s Foreign Affairs and Information Ministries have not issued any official statements regarding the matter.
