Ethiopians and Somalis; are they really foes for life?

In analyzing the conflict between the Ethiopian government and the Union of Islamic Courts in Somalia, several personalities who claim to be Somalia, east Africa, horn of Africa and/or even Africa analysts have repeatedly stated the existence of some kind of animosity between the people of Ethiopia and Somalia. Majority of these so-called analysts gave two common reasons in support of their argument:

1. The two horn of Africa countries fought against each other at least two times in the last three or four decades.
2. Ethiopia is perceived by many Somalis as Christian –led imperialist country.

Now, the question is do these two reasons given above really cause the Somalis to develop deep-rooted hatred against their neighbor Ethiopians?

First and for most, just because two neighboring countries fought against each other, for one reason or another, once, twice or even three times, does not necessarily mean that the two neighboring people who, in many ways, share so much in common will retain an ever lasting hate for each other. It is true that the recurring war and conflict between the two countries could result in some sort of mistrust and jealousy, but to conclude that the two people hate each other all the time is a broad generalization and misguided. Did not Ethiopians fight against the Sudan and Eritrea in the past? They did, but that does not make them enemies for life!

As to the Somalis perception of Ethiopians being dominantly Christians and led by Christians, it is a clear fact that Ethiopia is, not only historically and traditionally a Christian country, but also dominantly Christian at this time too. However, it is not acceptable for me to claim that Ethiopia is a Christian-led nation. Many Muslim ministers and officials are involved in the current or past governments of Ethiopia – not to mention the large number of Muslim parliament members.  

In the early nineties, when the Americans went into Somalia to help the Somalis reclaim peace and order, there were for sure Somalis who welcomed and desperately wanted the Americans to stay despite the unfortunate situations that unfolded afterwards. Americans are predominantly Christians and the whole world knows that, including the Somalis. Yet, many Somalis appreciated the help from the Americans and wished the American soldiers did not leave.

Therefore, just because Somalia and Ethiopia fought in the past and many Ethiopians are Christians or they are led by Christians, if and when they are; does not necessarily mean that people of these two countries are enemies for life.

Se-Arom K.

January 8, 2007

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