Berbera Port, in Somalia, is the closest African facility to Bab-el-Mandeb, after Djibouti, and an essential facility in the region.  

At the beginning of the year, to sustain its economic growth, Ethiopia signed a pact with the separatist government of Somaliland for access to the port facility, leasing it in a change of Somaliland recognition.  

The agreement Ethiopia signed consists of leasing 20 kilometres of the coastline, including access to the port. 

This development could reduce Djibouti's economic position, as 95% of Ethiopian commerce passes through it. 

The port deal would diversify the routes in Africa and reduce costs, but it would also create tensions between Addis-Ababa and the Somalian government.  

In fact, Mogadishu declared the pact “Illegal” and expelled the Ethiopian ambassador in January.  

After months of tensions, Turkey is attempting to mediate between the two countries to realise the port deal.  

In the long run, the geopolitical tensions between Ethiopia and Somalia can destabilise the region. 

If the mediation proves successful, it could stabilise the Berbera Port status and allow for safer trade for the African route and supply chains.