By HAN News Desk
ADDIS ABABA — Reports have emerged indicating that Egypt is planning to construct a new seaport in the Horn of Africa nation of Djibouti — a development that could reshape regional dynamics and potentially raise concerns in neighbouring Ethiopia.
According to diplomatic sources, Egypt and Djibouti signed a preliminary agreement last year allowing Cairo to pursue the project, though the full details of the deal and the construction timeline have not yet been publicly disclosed.
The initiative comes at a time when Ethiopia is intensifying efforts to secure reliable and long-term access to the sea. Landlocked since Eritrea gained independence in 1993, Ethiopia remains heavily dependent on Djibouti’s ports, which handle about 95% of its imports and exports.
While Ethiopia has not officially commented on Egypt’s plans, individuals familiar with the matter say it remains uncertain how Addis Ababa views the potential construction of an Egyptian-run port so close to its major trade lifeline.
Analysts note that relations between Egypt and Ethiopia have been strained for years due to the dispute over Ethiopia’s Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD) on the Nile River. Given this backdrop, experts say any new Egyptian foothold in Djibouti — whether economic or strategic — could be interpreted by Ethiopia as a move with possible security implications.
“This could be seen as more than just a commercial project,” one regional security analyst told HAN News. “Given the long-standing tensions between the two countries, Ethiopia may interpret this as part of a broader strategic positioning by Egypt in the region.”
Djibouti, which already hosts military bases belonging to multiple global powers, has been expanding its port infrastructure as part of its strategy to cement its role as a major logistical hub in the Horn of Africa.
Though unconfirmed, early indications suggest the proposed Egyptian port could focus on commercial operations. However, observers say any Egyptian presence in a location as sensitive as Djibouti — near the critical Bab al-Mandab strait — would almost certainly carry strategic significance.
Experts warn that if the project moves forward, it could alter the geopolitical landscape of the Horn of Africa. An Egyptian-controlled port in Djibouti could serve as a new point of influence for Cairo in a region already characterised by intense competition among regional and international actors.
While there is no direct evidence yet that Ethiopia is alarmed by the development, analysts predict the issue could fuel diplomatic friction if not handled carefully.
“It is a delicate moment for the region,” another Horn of Africa expert said. “For Ethiopia, the sea access question is existential — and the presence of Egypt, its main rival, at a key maritime gateway could complicate an already tense relationship.”
