The Deal That Could Reshape the Horn of Africa
Somalia’s President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud has made a surprising offer to the US. This proposal could significantly alter the geopolitical landscape of the region. The bold move would grant the US exclusive control over key strategic locations.
These include air bases and ports at Balidogle, Berbera, and Bosaso. Reuters revealed this development on March 28. President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud originally made the offer in a March 16, 2025, letter to the US government.
The locations in question are of immense strategic importance. Balidogle lies just 90 kilometers northwest of Mogadishu, while Bosaso is situated in the semi-autonomous state of Puntland. Berbera, however, is in the breakaway region of Somaliland, adding a layer of complexity to the deal.
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So, why is Somalia making this offer? The primary goal is to bolster US military support in the fight against Islamist militants, particularly the Al-Shabaab insurgency.
Additionally, the move aims to counterbalance the growing influence of rival powers in the Horn of Africa, ensuring the US maintains a dominant presence in this critical corridor.
If accepted, the deal would provide the US with uninterrupted access to these vital locations, enhancing its ability to conduct counterterrorism operations and project power across the region.
However, the proposal has already sparked controversy, especially from Somaliland, which opposes any agreement that undermines its claim to independence. The stage is now set for a high-stakes diplomatic and strategic showdown.
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