Published On 27/11/2025
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Last update: 23:41 (Mecca time)
Addis Ababa – The United States intensified its military and diplomatic activity in the Horn of Africa, after the Commander of AFRICOM, General Dagvin R.M. Anderson’s new tour of the region included Ethiopia, Somaliland and Puntland.
The visit focused on supporting regional efforts to “combat terrorism and enhance maritime security” in a region witnessing escalating geopolitical competition.
Ethiopia and the dream of a sea port
On November 24, General Dagfin held high-level official discussions with Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed.
The two sides discussed ways to confront cross-border threats and cooperate to combat terrorism in East Africa and the Sahel.
The American commander stressed that stability in the Horn of Africa requires an effective partnership between America, Ethiopia, and the African Union, and that common security is the only way to build sustainable prosperity in the Horn of Africa region.
The AFRICOM Commander also held talks with the Chief of Staff of the Ethiopian Army, Field Marshal Berhanu Jula, and the talks dealt with regional security issues, the future of military cooperation between the two countries, and combating terrorist organizations in the region. The two parties agreed on the need to raise the level of security coordination.
According to the Ethiopian Ministry of Defense, Field Marshal Berhanu Jula stressed his country’s desire to reach a sea port through peaceful means to support its development and economic plans.
The ministry added that General Dagfin expressed his understanding of the Ethiopian position, and considered that any peaceful framework that gives Ethiopia an outlet on the Red Sea could enhance the stability of the region. He also promised to convey this vision to officials in Washington.
Somaliland is at the forefront of American attention
During his visit to Somaliland, AFRICOM Commander, General Dagvin R.M. Anderson held a meeting in Hargeisa with President Abdel Rahman Ero, in the presence of an American diplomatic and military delegation.
The meeting discussed the growing role of Somaliland in protecting international navigation and confronting terrorist threats in East Africa.
Somaliland President Abdirahman Ayro said the talks focused on expanding security and intelligence cooperation, strengthening joint efforts to protect maritime routes, and discussing economic development and investment opportunities.
After the meetings in Hargeisa, the American delegation moved to Berbera to inspect the airport, port, and coastal security facilities.
The AFRICOM commander was briefed on the logistical and infrastructure capabilities that “give Somaliland increasing weight over one of the world’s most important sea lanes.”
American officials praised Somaliland’s stability and its geographical location, which enhances its value as a partner in regional security, at a time when international competition over the Red Sea is escalating.
Puntland and ISIS
Later, the Commander of the US Africa Command, General Anderson, headed to Puntland, where he was received by Vice President Elias Lugatore.
The discussions focused on enhancing security cooperation and intensifying military operations against ISIS in the Miscade Mountains.
The visit came days after an American raid targeted ISIS sites in the Julis Mountains, as part of a series of joint operations that local sources said targeted prominent leaders within the organization.
Anderson stressed Washington’s commitment to supporting Puntland’s security capabilities, while Logator praised the continued American support in combating terrorism, enhancing maritime security, and protecting shipping lines.
Since last August, General Anderson has been the commander of AFRICOM, which is headquartered in the German city of Stuttgart.
The command supervises US military operations in Africa to protect Washington’s interests and “promote regional stability.”
Since assuming his duties last August, Anderson has begun a series of intensive tours confirming Washington’s desire to reset its security presence in the Horn of Africa.
Last September, he conducted his first tour in the Horn of Africa region, which included Djibouti, Somalia, and Kenya.