New rules have been implemented by the Somali government. intending to strengthen national security and exercise sovereignty over its maritime domain, requiring all vessels navigating its territorial seas to fly the Somali flag.
On Saturday, September 1, 2024, state media released the instruction, which requires ships to abide by the guidelines established by the Ministry of Ports and Maritime Transport and alert Somali authorities as well.
This action follows increased tensions in the region, especially after an agreement between Ethiopia and Somaliland, which Somalia regards as its territory. The arrangement, which gives Ethiopia access to the Red Sea through the port of Berbera in Somaliland, has caused conflict, prompting Somalia to call back Ethiopia’s ambassador for talks.
The recently ratified defense and economic cooperation agreement with Turkey serves as another context for the new marine policy. This framework affects maritime security operations in Somali waters by enabling Turkey to support the development, training, and equipping of the Somali navy. Turkey may increase its naval presence in the area as part of its responsibility to safeguard Somali waterways.
Given Somaliland’s self-declared independence and unique flag, flying the Somali flag there may be controversial, therefore it is unclear how the decision will affect ships docked at Berbera port.
Egypt’s recent military aid transfer to Somalia, the first in more than 40 years, signifies shifting loyalties and may further strain relations with Ethiopia, further worsening regional tensions.
The flag mandate and the removal of all references to Somaliland from corporate operations are two examples of the initiatives taken by the Somali government to strengthen national unity and territorial integrity in the face of these intricate geopolitical manoeuvres.