The maritime boundary dispute between Kenya and Somalia has been a contentious issue in the Horn of Africa, drawing significant attention due to its geopolitical and economic implications. At the heart of the dispute lies a 100,000 square-kilometer triangular area in the Indian Ocean, believed to be rich in oil and gas reserves. The disagreement centers on how the maritime boundary should be drawn: Kenya argues for a parallel line extending eastwards along the latitude, while Somalia insists on a boundary line that follows its land border’s southeastern trajectory.
The origins of the dispute can be traced back to differing interpretations of international maritime law and colonial-era agreements. In 2009, Kenya and Somalia signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) that sought to address the boundary issue through negotiations. However, Somalia’s Parliament later rejected the agreement, escalating tensions. In 2014, Somalia filed a case at the International Court of Justice (ICJ) seeking a legal resolution.
In October 2021, the ICJ issued its verdict, largely favoring Somalia. The court rejected Kenya’s argument for a parallel boundary and instead drew an equidistant line that granted Somalia most of the disputed area. While the ruling was binding, Kenya rejected the decision, citing bias and concerns over sovereignty. This outcome further strained diplomatic relations between the two nations.
The disputed area is believed to have significant hydrocarbon deposits, making it a lucrative asset for economic development. Both Kenya and Somalia view control over the area as essential to their national interests. Beyond the economic stakes, the dispute also carries geopolitical implications, with international actors showing interest in the region’s resources and security dynamics.
The dispute has drawn attention from regional and international players, including the African Union and Western powers, who have called for dialogue and peaceful resolution. Kenya and Somalia’s strained relations have also impacted regional cooperation on security and economic integration, particularly in the fight against Al-Shabaab and the broader stability of the Horn of Africa.
Despite the ICJ ruling, the dispute is far from resolved. A sustainable solution requires diplomatic engagement and mutual concessions. Confidence-building measures, such as joint exploration and revenue-sharing agreements, could provide a pragmatic path forward. Additionally, regional organizations like the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) could play a mediating role in fostering dialogue.
The Kenya-Somalia maritime dispute underscores the complexities of territorial conflicts in resource-rich regions. While international legal mechanisms like the ICJ provide a framework for resolution, the ultimate success lies in the willingness of both parties to engage constructively. Resolving this dispute is critical not only for bilateral relations but also for the stability and economic development of the Horn of Africa.
