Addis Ababa (Horn post) Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed said Ethiopia has established a military force aimed at combating what he described as “terrorism in East Africa,” stressing that the country’s security efforts are intended to support regional stability.
Speaking on Thursday in Hawassa, Abiy made the remarks during a ceremony marking the 65th anniversary of the Special Operations Command of the Ethiopian National Defense Force.
“Our preparedness is about ensuring peace in Africa,” Abiy said. “We stand ready to be a pillar of support and a shield for countries in our region.”
He said Ethiopia has expanded its military training beyond land and mountain operations to include maritime training, reflecting what he described as emerging security challenges in the region.
The prime minister added that Ethiopia has built a professional force capable of serving not only national interests but also contributing to regional security, with the aim of preventing terrorism and promoting development and prosperity. He said the force would support “brotherly peoples” facing maritime security threats, ranging from the coast of Somalia to other strategic areas in the wider region.
The event was attended by senior political and military officials, including Ethiopian military chief Berhanu Jula.
In a message delivered during the ceremony, Abiy described the Special Operations Command as “the red-beret forces that end wars and prevent wars,” crediting them with rapid-response capabilities.
He said Ethiopia has developed what he called a modern combat and deterrence structure that uses advanced technology and extends beyond traditional military bases to strategic locations. According to the prime minister, the objective is to prevent conflicts and terrorism in the region and, when they occur, to end them swiftly.
Prepared by:
Horn post staff reporter
Hargeisa Somaliland.
