The Horn of Africa is a prominent peninsula situated in the Northeast Africa. Being the fourth largest in the world, it spreads across the southern boundary of the Red Sea, extending deep into the Guardafui Channel, Gulf of Aden, and Indian Ocean. It maintains an equal distance from the equator and the Tropic of Cancer. Multiple terrain types can be found within the Horn of Africa such as the highlands of the Ethiopian Plateau, the Ogaden desert, and the Eritrean and Somalian coasts. The region experiences various socio-political issues including imperialism, neo-colonialism, intra-African conflict, poverty, diseases, and famine, among others.
China’s Presence and Projects in the Horn of Africa
Emerging as a key player in the region, China has been steering several initiatives in the Horn of Africa. As part of its objectives set in 2022, China aims to control the pandemic, implement Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) outcomes, and uphold common interests while opposing hegemonic politics. The nation played a significant role in the infrastructural and societal development of the Horn during the Covid-19 pandemic, donating hundreds of thousands of vaccines to several countries in the region.
Chinese Interests and Investments in the Region
China has vested interests in the Horn of Africa, with projects spanning across areas like infrastructure development, financial assistance, and exploitation of natural resources. Some noteworthy projects include the fully funded USD 200 million African Union headquarters in Addis Ababa, and the Mombasa-Nairobi rail link in Kenya. China also holds a major share in the debt portfolios of Ethiopia and Kenya, providing significant financial assistance.
Shifting Away from Its Non-Intervention Principle
Over time, China has gradually drifted from its principle of non-intervention, adopting a more proactive approach towards solving disputes in the region. The shift is a manifestation of China’s intent to establish itself as a global leader and gain international recognition.
India’s relation with Horn of Africa
With its growing political, economic, and security interests, Africa, especially the sub-region of the Horn of Africa, has become significant for India. The vicinity of the Horn of Africa to the Middle East’s oil-producing region is vital as approximately 40% of Middle East’s oil production navigates through the Red Sea’s shipping lanes.
India’s Concern Over China’s Presence
Apart from the obvious strategic importance of Djibouti for its location on the north-western edge of the Indian Ocean, the area would further extend China’s “string of pearls” — an array of military alliances and assets surrounding India. Moreover, the Indian Ocean, which is home to shipping lanes carrying a major proportion of the world’s oil and bulk cargo, has witnessed increased activity from China, stirring concerns for India. The Chinese investments in regional infrastructural projects have also raised eyebrows in India.
Looking Ahead: A Future Perspective
For India, what transpires in the Horn of Africa has direct implications on its security and well-being. Therefore, it is imperative for India to closely monitor the evolving conditions and power dynamics in the region. An active engagement in dialogue and complex issue resolution with the governments in Eastern Africa, the African Union, and other stakeholders can pave the way for a meaningful contribution from India.
