Ethiopia and Somalia have recently signed a Status of Forces Agreement (SOFA), ensuring the continued presence of Ethiopian troops in Somalia at existing levels and within the same operational sectors. This development follows a series of diplomatic engagements aimed at resolving tensions between the two nations.

In December 2024, under Turkey’s mediation, Ethiopia and Somalia reached the Ankara Declaration, addressing disputes arising from Ethiopia’s agreement with Somaliland—a self-declared independent region of Somalia—to lease land for a naval base. Somalia viewed this deal as a violation of its sovereignty. The Ankara Declaration acknowledged Ethiopia’s contributions to regional stability and emphasized the importance of collaborative partnerships.

Despite initial threats from Somalia to expel Ethiopian troops over the Somaliland agreement, the recent SOFA signifies a commitment to maintaining security cooperation. This agreement coincides with the transition from the African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS) to the African Union Support and Stabilization Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM) in January 2025. Ethiopia’s participation in AUSSOM had been uncertain due to previous disputes, but the SOFA clarifies its continued involvement.

The SOFA not only solidifies military collaboration between Ethiopia and Somalia but also aims to enhance regional stability in the Horn of Africa. Both nations have expressed a commitment to overcoming past disagreements and working jointly to combat terrorism and other security challenges in the region.