The Center for Middle Eastern Studies (ORSAM) has underscored the need for domestically driven solutions to the challenges facing the Horn of Africa during a high-level public discussion in Turkish capital, Ankara, on Wednesday.
Titled "The Horn of Africa in Global Strategies and Current Dynamics," the event brought together regional experts, academics, and policymakers to examine the Horn of Africa's evolving geopolitical landscape.
The panel addressed the region's strategic significance beyond its immediate geography, framing it as a critical arena in global security, trade, and energy competition.
Speakers emphasised that while the policies of major powers continue to shape the region, the ability of local actors to define and implement their own agendas is becoming increasingly vital.
Strengthening Türkiye–Horn of Africa ties
Participants also evaluated Türkiye's current engagement with Horn of Africa countries, exploring avenues for deeper cooperation in political, economic, and development spheres.
The event aimed to support the creation of academic perspectives and policy frameworks that promote peace, security, and sustainable development in the region.
ORSAM reaffirmed its commitment to advancing research and dialogue on the Horn of Africa, strengthening its role in informing Türkiye's Africa policy through in-depth analysis and collaborative initiatives.
The panel was moderated by Dr. Kaan Devecioğlu, ORSAM Coordinator for North and East Africa Studies. Speakers included Prof. Abdiwahab Sheikh Abdisamed from the Afro-Asia Institute of Strategic Studies (Somalia), Dr. Gizachew Asrat from the Institute of Foreign Affairs (Ethiopia), and Dr. Cliff Omandi Okwany from the University of Nairobi (Kenya). Prof. Dr. Elem Eyrice Tepeciklioğlu from Ankara Social Sciences University (Türkiye) also participated as a panelist.
