DJIBOUTI – Djibouti, a small country with significant geopolitical importance, has attracted the attention of several great powers, hosting their military bases due to its strategic location and stable environment.
According to Africa News Agency, The international allure of Djibouti stems from its geographic and historic significance. Located at the southern entrance to the Bab el-Mandeb Strait near the Arabian Peninsula, Djibouti is a key transit point for a significant portion of the world’s goods, including a quarter of hydrocarbons. Historically, the French colonizers developed its port infrastructures to facilitate trade between East Africa and French Asian economies, particularly Indochina, leveraging its abundant marine resources.
Djibouti’s geopolitical relevance surged post-September 11, 2001, when the United States established a military base in the country. This choice was influenced by the existing French presence and Djibouti’s proximity to the Arabian Gulf, enabling the U.S. to monitor regions like Yemen and Somalia. Additionally, maritime piracy issues along the Somali coasts further enhanced Djibouti’s strategic position, leading to the deployment of the European naval force EUNavFor and a Japanese military base. China’s establishment of a military base in 2017, however, was distinct from the contexts of piracy and terrorism.
The Chinese base was set up following the ‘Arab Spring’ events, particularly after the fall of Gaddafi in Libya in 2011, where China faced challenges in evacuating its nationals. This move signaled China’s intention to assert itself as a global power and protect its significant investments and large number of nationals residing in East Africa and the Arabian Peninsula.
The presence of these military installations has had a varying economic impact on Djibouti. Historically, the French military presence accounted for a significant portion of Djibouti’s GDP. However, with the reduction in French troops and the establishment of new bases, the financial returns have decreased to less than ten percent of the GDP. Despite this, the government prioritizes the global visibility and security benefits these bases provide over direct financial gains.
Djibouti maintains a balanced foreign policy, aligning neither exclusively with Western nor Asian or Chinese blocs. The country’s relationship with China, characterized by significant investment in exchange for military presence, contrasts with its interactions with Western partners, which are more focused on facilitating IMF and World Bank facilities rather than direct investments.
Despite its heavy reliance on Chinese investments, Djibouti retains negotiation leverage due to hosting the Chinese military base. The country remains open to dialogue with various global powers, including Russia, although the United States has previously urged Djibouti not to accept a Russian base.
Regionally, Djibouti’s economy is closely intertwined with Ethiopia’s, with both countries experiencing mutual dependencies. Djibouti is exploring economic diversification to reduce reliance on port activities and trade with Ethiopia, while Ethiopia seeks alternative routes for goods delivery.
The Institute of Political and Strategic Studies (IEPS) of the Djibouti Study and Research Center, founded in 2008 following the war between Djibouti and Eritrea, plays a crucial role in providing independent analyses on Djibouti’s governance, economy, society, and the geopolitical dynamics of the Horn of Africa. It serves as a hub for debate and the generation of new ideas.
Kagumo, Kirinyaga County – Kagumo town in Kirinyaga County has experienced a significant transformation following the completion of a cabro pavement project. This initiative, led by the Kirinyaga County government, aimed to revitalize urban centers across the county, has covered 10,000 square meters in Kagumo town, located in Kirinyaga Central Constituency.
According to Kenya News Agency, completed within the last three months, stands as one of the most significant development endeavors undertaken by the county government in the area. The installation of cabro paving has not only enhanced the town’s aesthetics but has also alleviated the longstanding discomfort faced by traders and residents, especially during rainy seasons.
The project’s scope extended beyond mere beautification. It included the creation of ample car parking spaces and the establishment of designated pedestrian and non-motorable pathways on both sides of the road. Moreover, it incorporated an efficient storm water drainage system, significantly reducing the incidence of flooding during heavy rains.
Residents have lauded this development for modernizing the town, attracting increased attention and instilling a renewed sense of pride among the community. The project has also been credited for improving the overall living conditions in Kagumo, leading to a conducive environment for investment and subsequent economic growth.
Geoffrey Murage, a local resident, noted the town’s previously untidy and muddy state during rainy periods has been greatly improved, making navigation easier. He also mentioned the positive impact on local security, citing the engagement of youth in the project as a factor that has contributed to a decrease in crime rates.
Martin Gatimu, another resident, highlighted the safety improvements for pedestrians, who previously had to share roads with vehicles, particularly in rainy conditions. The new walkways have significantly improved pedestrian safety.
Zipporah Muriithi, a businesswoman in Kagumo, emphasized the economic benefits of the project. She pointed out that businesses previously suffered losses during rainy seasons, but the improved accessibility has now attracted more customers, boosting local commerce.
Governor Anne Waiguru, in her state of the county address, reaffirmed her commitment to enhancing infrastructure throughout Kirinyaga County. She outlined the completion of similar projects in other towns, including Kagio, Kutus, Kerugoya, and Kianyaga, and announced upcoming projects in Kagumo and Sagana. These efforts, she noted, aim to improve the working conditions for traders and enhance the livelihoods of residents across the county.