KENYA-SOMALIA | Africa's Brewing Conflict?

On 12 October 2021, the International Court of Justice delivered its judgment on the maritime dispute between Kenya and Somalia. However, while the new boundary was immediately welcomed by Somalia, Kenya flatly refused to accept the ruling - arguing that the Court was prejudiced and that it would not give up its national interests. So, what lay behind the case? Why has Nairobi so openly refused to accept the ruling of the world’s highest Court? And is their maritime dispute still unresolved?
Hello and welcome! My name is James Ker-Lindsay. Here I take an informed look at International Relations with a focus on territorial conflicts, secession, independence movements and new countries. If you like what you see, please do subscribe. If you want more, including exclusive content and benefits, consider becoming a channel member. Many thanks!
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While we often think of territorial conflicts in terms of land borders, maritime disputes - covering territorial waters, exclusive economic zones (EEZ) and continental shelves - are in fact far more common. In fact, it is estimated that there are currently between 200-400 such disputes around the world However, while many of these are resolved peacefully through negotiations, sometimes it requires the involvement of international judicial bodies. The most important of the se is the International Court of Justice (ICJ). One of the more interesting cases to come before the Court in recent years was the maritime dispute between the East Africa states of Somalia and Kenya, concerning their boundary in the Indian Ocean. Brought by Somalia, Kenya contested the case from the start. However, after a number of postponements, it eventually withdrew form the proceedings in early 29021. Then, with just weeks to go, it announced that it no longer accepted the jurisdiction for the Court. So, what does all this mean? Is there still maritime dispute? And what happens if Kenya continues to refuse to respect the ICJ’s judgement?
CHAPTERS
0:00 Introduction and Titles
0:37 Maritime Disputes and the International Court of Justice
1:58 Background to Somalia and Kenya
2:31 History of Somalia-Kenya Relations
5:09 The ICJ Case: Somalia vs Kenya
8:04 The Ruling of the ICJ on Kenya and Somalia
9:59 Why Kenya Should Accept the ICJ Judgement
12:35 The ICJ and the Maritime Dispute Between Somalia and Kenya
RELATED PLAYLISTS
Current Issues and Disputes • CURRENT ISSUES AND DIS...
Secession and Independence in Africa • AFRICA
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FURTHER READING & USEFUL SOURCES
Somalia vs Kenya ICJ Case www.icj-cij.org/en/case/161
UN Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) www.un.org/depts/los/conventi...
President Farmajo Somalia Statement • ICJ Ruling: Somalia pr...
President Kenyatta Kenya Statement • President Uhuru Kenyat...
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KEYWORDS
#Kenya #Somalia #ICJ
#InternationalPolitics #CurrentAffairs #InternationalRelations
#InternationalLaw #MaritimeDispute
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[@JamesKerLindsay]

This is a truly fascinating case. But is the issue still unresolved? We may now have a legal answer, but will see a political settlement? And where is it likely to go from here? Will Kenya escalate matters? Thoughts and comments below.

[@tiredox3788]

@Ed Ducate What they doing overthere?

[@itgamingke]

They might be a clash with the coastal settlers with the Somalis or The navy might be dealing with Somali pirates 😕

[@ahmedabdi4708]

@Ed Ducate what is your problem with Somalis?

[@brandonmorgan8016]

Q

[@viralkenyan6249]

You fail to recognize that just the ruling if implemented by Kenya, it might disrupt the maritime boundaries of the entire continent. That's why no African country wants anything to do with the troublesome Somalia because of presumably simple things like this which might spin out of control and bring chaos in the entire continent. Somalia is such an annoying neighbor.

[@NajashiProductions]

I really appreciate that you cover disputes that go under the radar of 99% of people, even those who believe they’re up to date with international affairs! A true enthusiast chasing events and not views!

[@JamesKerLindsay]

Thank you so much! That is a really nice comment. And hugely appreciated. Have a great weekend.

[@NajashiProductions]

@@JamesKerLindsay you too!

[@maskaxaaji]

“ Not Somalis living in Kenya’s NE region” but Somalis living in Somali region under Kenya occupation, Somalis never asked to be part of Kenya nor Ethiopia , Colonials decided for their own interests and draw this Crazy line called the border, the Brits did this and we are now reaping the fruits of their labor n it is a gift that keeps on giving, look at the Somali-Ethiopian conflict, Somali-Kenyan conflict , shifta wars , the NFD massacres like Wagala ,Garissa .The Ethiopian Derg oppression of Somalis in the Somali region , the Tplf oppression/ massacre of Somalis in Ogadenia and their invasion of Somalia, n it is only the start , these Border & Ethnic Conflicts will go on because no one can hold together people and regions that doesn’t belong together.

[@Maweresistance]

Well, they can move back to Somalia and go fight themselves there because we ain't giving an inch! The Kenyan Somalis who are genuine are doing just fine. Better than they can do in Somali.

[@amishaanish2024]

@@Maweresistance move where???

[@mohamedabdirahman6939]

@@Maweresistance they're their own land, and they're not going anywhere.

[@jsyjoop4994]

Even fellow Kenyans know how fucked and corrupt the government is. They constantly neglect and ignore the thoughts of those in the nfd. That’s why most Kenyans see the nfd as “dangerous” cause the people there aren’t ever listened to.

[@Mrkaarto1]

@@Maweresistance you’re a product of British colony and British created Kenya just to stop what they called Somalis expansion. “ the white expansionist calling us what he’s is funny lol” FYI, We “Somalis kicked the Portuguese colonizers from Mombasa all the way to Mozambique about 500 yrs ago. Btw, we welcomed our Bantu brother after the Belgium colonizers in Congo killed about 13-15 millions. British Anglo sexon and their puppets have had issues with Somali since we had about 200 plus wars against them until he brought over 10 plus nations from their protected colonies and first air strikes in Africa history. it irks me to think that our neighboring African brothers always follow the colonizers and believe his indoctrination. African borders was created by colonizers without discussing with inhabitants or local chiefs and its quits funny the people I helped yesterday from Portuguese oppression wants to take my country piece by piece with the help of the colonizers.

[@elhaanegeh2019]

Thank you for your informative reporting. I blame Somalis for their on-going tribal fighting. They are too distracted to protect their country and territorial waters, hence Kenya taking advantage. Somalia needs to wake up and protect its territory at all costs by coming together as one. The court's ruling was just and Kenya needs to abide to it.

[@Norawarsame]

As a Somali citizen, The audacity of Kenya is funny to me.

[@fdafreewrldx1007]

Bro dese jareers only like this because Somalia is a mess

[@Norawarsame]

@@fdafreewrldx1007 exactly

[@MrJairforce]

@@fdafreewrldx1007 Nah, Jareers just coming for what’s ours. Pay attention, jubbaland is next

[@marygekonge5983]

@@fdafreewrldx1007 OK peaceful abeeds🤷‍♂️

[@number1kenyan]

@@MrJairforce no, Jubaland isn’t within Kenyan interest. The idea of Kenyan Jubaland died in 1925 (Im a Kenyan btw)

[@mohamedalihashi2221]

if Kenya does not abide by international law, let it know that Somalia will open the debate on the NFD(Northeast) a Somali territory that the British colonialists annexed to Kenya. It's always better to be good neighbors and live while respecting each other. We are not interested in creating new African problems, we stand for a solution, but make no mistake we are capable of defending our territory. Kenya 🇰🇪 can dream but that will never come true

[@mohamedalihashi2221]

@@Shdvbwyromnqcapejlfizxk if they don't stop declining the judgment of the court that issue will be discussed next time

[@erickmoenga1206]

Somalia tried and failed so many times....

[@fadkabari8554]

@@erickmoenga1206 we will keep trying and take our land back insha allah. We never shy from a challenge

[@fadkabari8554]

@@Shdvbwyromnqcapejlfizxk you will give up.greater Somalia will happen it's inevitable

[@eastman6-9]

Somalia can barely keep itself safe depending on the KDF and amisom forces to keep it from desentegrating into violence and gihadist terrorism ideology a source of insecurity to her neibours and hub for pirates along east Africa who are you kidding somalia is a failed state 🙄

[@razshirwa]

This issue has historical links to Northern Frontier Districts (NFD) if the former British colony had never ignored the will of Somalis and disregarded their referendum to join Greater Somalia in 1962 than this issue would have never come up! Another point is that Somalia is on its way back and it will be interesting to see what will happen in next few years with issue

[@JamesKerLindsay]

Thanks. I hope to look at these issues in more detail in future videos. The original script also mentioned Jubaland, which Britain of course ceded to Italy.

[@razshirwa]

@@JamesKerLindsay I can not wait that! Looking forward

[@itgamingke]

Bro hear me out Somalia can only come up only if the people are willing to be peaceful to themselves and their neighbors (East Africa Community). EAC will be willing to help you guys as neighbors only if the people of somali keep good relations with each other

[@razshirwa]

@@itgamingke we weren't talking about Somalia's internal instability but the Kenyan unrecognised border issue

[@mzalendo24]

Somalia is Kenya/Ethiopian colony at the end of the day. Stop crying to Europeans like a bunch of women

[@FredoRockwell]

Wow, I knew nothing about this dispute, and I realise now that I had no real understanding of how widespread these disputes are. Thank you for explaining, and for explaining more about the ICJ!

[@JamesKerLindsay]

Thanks Fredo. It is such an interesting case, isn't it? But not because of the complexity of the issue. In fact, it is especially interesting because the issue was actually relatively straightforward - and so there was never really much doubt about how the Court was going to rule. (The Aegean issue between Greece and Turkey would be a much more complex case for the Court.) I just found it fascinating how Kenya has responded throughout. It unilaterally set a boundary and then did everything it could to avoid engaging in discussions on it.

[@benmwas2202]

@@JamesKerLindsay Let me try and explain the political perspective from the Kenyan Point of view. You see none of Kenyan boundaries were set in the traditional sense, that is through war. in comparison for example, Most of European Countries boundaries are post world war 2 boundaries . Rather Kenya inherited its boundaries from the colonial boundaries. The Kenyan state position has therefore been to defend these boundaries that it inherited. The maritime boundary in question was such a boundary. It was a colonial practice boundary that Kenya inherited and it is therefore defending. Somalia on the other hand, generally feels short changed by the colonial boundaries that it inherited. This is why Somali Nationalist talk about the ogaden region in Ethiopia and the NFD in Kenya. It also the root cause of the shifta war with Kenya and the ogaden war with Ethiopia. From the Kenyan political perspective it seems that Somalia saw an opportunity to expand its maritime boundary using the current international maritime legal body of law that favors equidistant delimitation and the ICJ ruled in their favor. Contrary to what some people have stated on this forum. Kenyans do not feel like they were trying to expand. Rather they were defending a boundary they already had and the ICJ ruled against them. This explains why President Uhuru rejected the ruling and why Kenya felt the need to reject the jurisdiction of the ICJ. What is the way forward? 1) Kenya is a democracy with a strong and fair judiciary, therefore the actions of the Kenyan Government as pertaining to this issue can still be challenged by anyone in Kenyan Courts. 2) In the interest of Peace, Political negotiations between these two countries should still continue with a view for a future of better regional cooperation with regard to the administration of this maritime region. 3) Kenya should probably take a long term view on this issue and support the rule of law on the international political scene, this would most probably mean that the Kenyan Government should accept the ICJ ruling.

[@Asamations]

Hopefully the two can resolve their differences eventually. Keep up the great work James! Another interesting video.

[@Awdal_State]

It's belong to Somalia 🇸🇴 simply !

[@JamesKerLindsay]

I hope you watched the video! (And gave it a like.) The big question is what Kenya’s refusal to accept the ICJ’s ruling means?

[@Atheneon]

@@JamesKerLindsay It means war

[@theancientsancients1769]

@@JamesKerLindsay Somalia is training thousands of naval forces and air force in Turkey and Pakistan and Turkey has promised warships and drones , a capability Kenya can't match. Turkey largest military base in the world is in Mogadishu. They will patrol the Somali sea an interim

[@briant5685]

@@JamesKerLindsay means nothing because no onecares what icj has to say,uk,france,usa,turkey chile among many nations have given the court's ruling cold shouder why would kenya follow the rule..?

[@MaddoxKillgore]

@@theancientsancients1769 Then why is the sea under Kenya's jurisdiction? Somalia cannot match up to Kenya.

[@ajalahupfront]

As always, a free lecture on international law. As soon as I can, I am becoming a patron on this channel. I plan to do a masters in public international law, I can imagine how rich the knowledge I get from this channel will be.

[@JamesKerLindsay]

Thank you so much! So great to hear that you are interested in PIL. It is such a fascinating subject. I come from International Relations, but my specific area of interest - secession and recognition - is heavily shaped by international law. Interestingly, there isn't that much interaction between the two fields usually. Obviously, I hope I bringing that divide! :-) In the meantime, have a lovely rest of the weekend.

[@ShubhamMishrabro]

You can get knowledgeable just by following news.

[@GeediGeediMuse]

Thank you for bringing this up; a lot of turmoils going on;

[@rogerdarthwell5393]

Never heard about this dispute, thank you Mr Ker-Lindsay for this video!

[@JamesKerLindsay]

Thanks Roger. Yes, it really didn’t get much international attention. And, on the face of it, why should it? It was a actually a rather straightforward case that wasn’t going to rewrite the rulebook. But Kenya’s behaviour made it absolutely fascinating. It was a really great insight into the Court.

[@rogerdarthwell5393]

@@JamesKerLindsayCompletely agree!

[@azakzaak1691]

This was a great and objective analysis of the case, which touched on different aspects of the case. Somalia has achieved its main strategic objective on the case which was to establish the legal and binding demarcation on the area through an internationally recognized mechanism to deter international companies to even consider engaging with Kenya in respect of the area where there are oil and gas prospects while Somalia is rebuilding its institutions. The next stage is enforcing the ruling and Somalia will do that when the time is right but now the case is closed as far as Somalia is concerned whether Kenya accepts and rejects, it does not really mater.

[@MartintheMetalhead]

Geez, look at the border between Somalia and Ethiopia in the south. That line hasn't been properly drawn. Seems like the Somali part of Ethiopia could have actually joined Somalia and form a greater Somalia.

[@catalinmarius3985]

You have just described the reason for so many conflicts in Africa in a nutshell.

[@sirsurnamethefirstofhisnam7986]

Somalia invaded Ethiopia for that very reason in the Ogaden war

[@Atheneon]

@@sirsurnamethefirstofhisnam7986 We didn't invade Ethiopia We just entered ogaden

[@MenelikWIns]

@@Atheneon We didn't invade Somalia We just entered Mogadishu

[@Atheneon]

@@MenelikWIns You see we have to invade Ethiopia when we want to enslave Ethiopians Since the ogaden has no Ethiopians we didn't invade Ethiopia If we invaded why didn't the people of the ogaden attack the Somali Army?

[@renafielding945]

Thank you for this enlightening presentation.

[@JamesKerLindsay]

Thank you. I'm glad it was useful.

[@loworochi]

As a Somali I’ve been following this dispute since it’s inception. I’m not sure about the perspective of a Kenyan but from the Somali perspective I think it’s a little foul that they wanted to expand their maritime borders. Somalia doesn’t have a navy (has been out of commission since the fall of the communist dictatorship) so I doubt it’ll keep Kenya out of the ocean. Or that’s a cynical gut feeling I have. Anyways I love how you went about this. Neutral and unbiased.

[@philkimani1085]

I'm a Kenyan and I'm of view Kenya shot itself in the foot by not having a coherent strategy. The administration here has been gravely incompetent at legal issues. Evidenced by the rulings against the government in local courts at every turn.

[@loworochi]

@@philkimani1085 great to hear another perspective. It definitely would’ve been in their best interest to be prepared.

[@delinquente1444]

Ave siad barre!

[@starestairs5090]

You were following the dispute since the inception but you still not sure about Kenya perspective? What a joke really. Kenya has a big English speaking population. It is not hard to watch Kenyan news and see what Kenya thinks about the dispute with Somalia. Somalia does not have a navy, that is true but how is that a argument? “As a Somali” and you are claiming Somalia’s take on the despite as “foul”. Not only does Kenya has NFD but also wants the waters near NFD? And you haven’t talked about that either. Absolutely disgusting seeing people not defend their own country. Especially Somalis which are known to be prideful or whatever

[@Kenia-sn1cg]

Also it is greedy for Somalia which has a 3800 km of coast line to try and reduce Kenya's 480 km coast. Kenya has 48 million people to feed compared to Somalia's 15 million so the offshore wealth just has to be Kenyan if the world is about doing what is right rather than looking back to treaties signed in 1902.

[@max77themax]

Very informative. Thank you

[@JamesKerLindsay]

Thank you so much. I'm really glad it helped. It is such an interesting case; not so much for the problem (it's actually rather straightforward) but for the way it unfolded.

[@KS-qi5nz]

Brilliant analysis

[@JamesKerLindsay]

Thank you so much. It’s such an interesting situation. The issues are actually about as straightforward as you can find. No complex islands to navigate around and between. But it’s fascinating how Kenya has responded.

[@makeracistsafraidagain7608]

Great one James, thanks.

[@JamesKerLindsay]

Thank you so much. Perhaps not as immediately attention grabbing as some of my other topics, but an absolutely fascinating case to look at.

[@Mohamedalijama143]

I sincerely appreciate your coverage style for the subject matter. It's been so professional. There is much to be learned from you with that professionalism and neutrality attributes you possess.

[@JamesKerLindsay]

Thank you so much. That is very kind of you to say. I really appreciate it.

[@kennedyngigi3256]

Kenya's president has said we know our borders and we don't need an inch more an inch less .Our country will stay intact the way our forefathers left it.

[@lilobarbelrosch9022]

That is a perfect case to illustrate a variety of issues in international law! Great video! While there are, of course, theoretical avenues for the Security Council to ensure compliance but given the state of the world, I doubt that will happen.

[@JamesKerLindsay]

Thank you so much! I was keen to do this video as it really is a great case for outline a whole range of different issues, such as the role of maritime disputes in international affairs and how the ICJ works - and what happens if a country doesn't comply with a judgement. I completely agree on the compliance point. I don't think the UNSC will act on it. But it will be interesting to see what Kenya does in the period ahead to test the ruling by sending in ships to the area awarded to Somalia. As noted, Article 94 of the UN Charter makes it clear that Somalia would have every right to refer it to the Council.

[@itgamingke]

Even though I've said a lot of crazy stuff about the situation, I just want EAC to remain peaceful because that is the only way the region can go forward because we trust each other

[@luxembourgishempire2826]

👍 Interesting video James. I never heard about this...

[@JamesKerLindsay]

Thanks. Yes, it really slipped beneath the radar. But it is a fascinating case. Not so much because if the issue or the way it was resolved. It was a fairly standard dispute. But because of the way Kenya behaved. It really was a good way to cast some light on maritime issues and the role of the ICJ in conflict resolution.

[@NikolaHD]

As always great video James! I have very little knownledge about african countries so this is like butter for my brain 😊

[@JamesKerLindsay]

Thank you so much Nikola. I had wanted to do this a bit earlier. It is such an interesting case. Quite apart from the Africa angle, it really highlights how the ICJ works - and what happens if a country wants to ignore its authority. I hope all is well with you.

[@brown-man8356]

Thank you for your information mostly well said ..

[@JamesKerLindsay]

Thank you!

[@TheShanewalsh]

Excellent analysis James. Asante, shukran.

[@JamesKerLindsay]

Thanks so much!

[@tacocruiser4238]

I like Kenya more than Somalia but I have to agree with Somalia's version of the border. It just makes more sense. Sorry Kenya.

[@catalinmarius3985]

I also agree that Somalia's version makes more sense than Kenya, but just look at Kenya and Tanzania's maritime border in the south. It's exactly the same but reversed (with Tanzania being the Kenya and Kenya being the Somalia). Imagine if they make an ICJ case for that border now and lose again due to their now bad reputation. ICJ's decision vastly supported Somalia, it wasn't even half of the claimed territory, Kenya got only a small souvenir piece.

[@aapo2945]

@@catalinmarius3985 If one would draw a standard border between Kenya and Tanzania which would follow a line equidistant from the nearest habitable shoreline, that would be even worse for Kenya than the border the two countries have agreed to. This is because the island of Pemba would distort that border to go further north.

[@catalinmarius3985]

@@aapo2945 Aren't islands counted as something entirely different from mainland land?

[@jacksongekara8412]

@Justin Y. So what???!

[@catalinmarius3985]

@Justin Y. Just because Kenya got an unfair treatment by the ICJ it doesn't mean Kenya took your waters.

[@Faf786]

As Somali the content of this video is well researched and balanced, it takes a lot effort to do research than just scratch on the surface so good job! Although we feel we didn’t get All that we deserved but still we have to accept the court ruling and move on!

[@JamesKerLindsay]

Thank you very much indeed. It was such an interesting case. The specifics were actually rather straightforward, but the way Kenya responded offered a really interesting chance to look into the workings of the Court and the extent of its authority.

[@joeyblaq9952]

very informative piece.

[@ksgrmdsdl2383]

Great analysis.

[@JamesKerLindsay]

Thanks so much. It’s actually a really great case to use to discuss how the ICJ works. The issues are remarkable straightforward. But the Kenyan response has been extraordinary.

[@antonyhanson4479]

The main objective by Somalia was to prevent Kenya from selling the offshore oil blocks in the disputed waters. Somalia has achieved all it objectives and as Kenya is unable to exploit the potential oil reserves it is now sabre rattling.

[@hotmess2766]

😂 haha exactly they thought Somalia would still be asleep so they can continue looting

[@itgamingke]

Just to later give it up to turkey 🇹🇷 and be proud of it because they're a Muslim country 🥱🥲must be real tuff out here

[@antonyhanson4479]

Kenya still has thousands of colonial era farmers while the blacks fight each other over grazing.......they don't deserve this resource rich sea.

[@hotmess2766]

@@antonyhanson4479 yep not the case with Somalia its cause Kenya is weak they're still owned by the English, the Arabs, Indians and even Somalis everyone but Kenyans 😂

[@marygekonge5983]

@@hotmess2766 you wish

[@philkimani1085]

I'm a Kenyan and I'm very impressed with the quality of coverage you've done. Very impartial reporting. As a Kenyan I have to say that the Kenyan government had a very poor legal strategy. Had they taken a coherent approach to this matter rather than attempting to kick the can down the road, the outcome would probably have been better. The Kenyan government assumed that it's lax adherence to the rule of law at home would work abroad. This administration has especially been sloppy in terms of sound legal strategy. Time and again the Kenyan government has been humiliated in local courts. Most recently they have been rebuffed twice in their efforts to manipulate the constitution. The administration of Uhuru Kenyatta has failed to protect the constitution at home. I'm scarcely aware of how much protection he can give to our territory. It's in Kenya's best long term interest to adhere to the ruling. We shouldn't pursue pariah status because of the failures of one administration.

[@JamesKerLindsay]

Thank you so much. I was wondering what the view of the situation might be in Kenya. I know that it is very easy for politicians to play on such things for domestic gain, it happens everywhere, but this really does have far more serious longer-term implications for Kenya and for Africa. It was very interesting to see how the Kenyan Government really didn't engage with the process from the start. I don't think this actually worked against it too much. The final ruling was pretty much in line with what one would have expected. (Perhaps that's why it chose not to engage.) But the problem now is that there is a recognised boundary - and Kenya might have been able to get something better if it had really argued it case. Of course, Somalia really isn't in a position to enforce it, but overall this really doesn't look particularly good for Kenya to just ignore the ruling and the Court as a whole - especially as it does have a leadership role in Africa.

[@Klopp2543]

@@emmanuelgathara696 how and when has the Kenyan government ever challenged on how it trades/engages it's natural resources? Turkana oil,kilifi titanium etc? Has any contract ever been made public? Why didn't kenya argue it's case in icj? The icc case(2007) is still open and not closed For your information it's Kenya which invited the icc to prosecute

[@Klopp2543]

@@emmanuelgathara696 the courts stopped what? Do some research on that project I bet you will be more informed on turkana oil and lamu titanium etc. For one you'll see uhuru flagging of the oil(beats me how and why he did that) The courts ordered the government to publicize all the contracts 5yrs ago and the government never did, shows you how the executive respect of the judiciary

[@Klopp2543]

@@emmanuelgathara696 how much does the KILIFI titanium add to the GDP? Magadi,turkana oil etc? When did the courts ever stop the government? Are you Kenyan or live in Kenya? I don't think so Please cite any contract done by the government that has ever been made public? If possible stay on topic and answer how the disputed territory is better in Kenyan hands?

[@hassanabdikarimmohamed2505]

@@Klopp2543 I'm not Kenyan, but I checked the oil prospects onshore Kenya cuz I keep up to date with any major hydrocarbon developments in sub saharan Africa, it seems like the oil in turkana is too small in reserves for it to have any considerable economic benefit, so I doubt much will come from it, as for the reason Kenya hasn't disclosed any major bilateral international investment loan contracts especially with China, its because Kenya signed non disclosure confidentiality clauses with China as part of the contractual stipulations, meaning the Kenyan government legally can't speak about the specific of the deal which allowed it to secure 8 billion dollars of high interest Chinese loans (recent news shows Kenya defaulted on these loans for 6 months and then took our further imf and world bank loans just to repay a small part of the Chinese loans as Kenya was facing a real threat of China repossesing the port(s) it built) Usually most developed nations don't force devolution states to sign such secretive contracts that forbid any disclosure, its really odd China uses this tactic and that Kenya (due to corruption which plagues most african countries) went along with it, its most likely because the amount of those loans in terms of the actual infrastructure they were financing, were most likely inflated so that the Kenyan government can get huge kickbacks, plus China also wants to keep their deals secret because their deals probably have unfair clauses which if made public would hurt china's international standing and reputation in Africa

[@FactFusion254]

I really like how you summed up everything with class. Let's just thank KZbin algorithm that suggested this video. I'll be watching all your videos if they are all like this

[@JamesKerLindsay]

Thank you so much. That’s really great to hear. But I have to warn you that you might not like everything I say. I do rather call things as I see them. I won’t be offended if I get an angry response to another video at some point! :-)

[@SomaHoste]

well-articulated video. subbed.

[@JamesKerLindsay]

Thank you very much! Welcome to the channel.

[@badroad4610]

The border line is clear, Kenya bambling about what 🤔

[@stanslousk3391]

What's really puzzling is that the community around the border btwn the 2 countries are the same. Private interest in Nairobi n Mogadishu are driving the maritime dispute

[@theancientsancients1769]

Ethnic Somalis live in both sides of the border , Somalia still recognises Northern Kenya as a Somali region just like it does with ethnic Somalis region in eastern Ethiopia. Those regions give them cards to play

[@farhanyare6382]

Thank you 🙇

[@YasinNabi]

Great video….

[@JamesKerLindsay]

Thank you very much indeed!

[@maa9231]

Thank you for informative, fair, unbais and factual analysis of the case, it's great to see Somalia using the international body available to resolve it's difference with Kenya. Like you said respect for international laws is what unites us, dignify us and prevails peace.

[@JamesKerLindsay]

Completely agree. It is also good to see that, despite its difficulties, Somalia was able to mount a very professional case.

[@abdifatah8520]

Thanks you James for sharing this interesting article, Kenya took it part of Somalia and get away for them refusing the judgement It doesn't surprise me. Somalia will raise again!

[@peterkops6431]

Thanks Prof👍🏻👍🏻

[@marygekonge5983]

I love how Kenyans are never interested in anything concerning Somalis that's why they never comment.

[@samuelkimani2317]

This guyz keep shouting and yelling creating imaginary enemies just so they feel relevant.

[@marygekonge5983]

@@samuelkimani2317 I've realized that as well. It's scary at this point 💀

[@xoriyo]

Whole comment thread is filled with Kenyans foaming at the mouth. Delusional people who rather than bothering their neighbours, should start paying off that Chinese debt.

[@marygekonge5983]

@@xoriyo Somali Somalis and somali Kenyans not Kenyans 🤷‍♂️

[@xoriyo]

@@marygekonge5983 No Somali wants to be Kenyan. A Somali is a Somali.

[@charlibravo371]

Kenya is increasingly becoming a belligerent state in East Africa. They have constant issues with Tanzania, Uganda, and Somalia. Unfortunately for them, they are slowing loosing influence in the region as others like Ethiopia and Tanzania move ahead.

[@eastkanye254]

You have never been more mistaken in your life! Kenya is becoming an african economic super power!

[@charlibravo371]

@@eastkanye254 yes your right, a super power of corruption.

[@David-gy6fv]

All Countries are falling apart around Kenyan, Magufuli died therefore Tanzania is back to square one. Ethiopia has civil war. Somali big brother Turkeys economy is collapsing, Uganda economy is going to the toilet, China is taking over and they will give it to Kenya to manage. We help stabilise Southern Sudan since we own the banks there.

[@David-gy6fv]

@@eastkanye254 all banks in Southern Sudan are extensions of Kenyan banks therefore govt officials supporting war can have their money frozen overnight even the president.

[@Yt-dd4zj]

You don’t know what you’re talking about…We have the 6th strongest economy in Africa…1st in East Africa, we ain’t loosing anything…Somalia ain’t even top 45

[@ismailjama1913]

Thank you James for sharing with us this fascinating case. However, Kenya is taking advantage of the absence of Somali Maritime Forces. This border was inline with ENCLOS border marking. That is equivalent of saying Kismayo is part of Kenya. Soon or later Somalis will invade Kenya if they continue to claim Somali borders.

[@collinokado7744]

Internet tough guy..invade with what and al shabaab is hitting Mogadishu daily. Dont be a fool

[@hassanabdikarimmohamed2505]

@@collinokado7744 says the Kenyan whose army was embarrassed globally as cowards, when the american generals reported through the new York Times that Kenyan soldiers 'hid in the grass'during the manda bay attack', Kenyan cowardice caused American soldier deaths according to USA generals Such cowards will never be a real threat to Somalia

[@ismailjama1913]

@@collinokado7744 Just look back the history of Somalis. History speaks itself. Look back at what we did to Ethiopia back in 70's. When it comes to national issue, we our differences aside. So be warned.

[@itgamingke]

Invade my ancestral land if you're maybe drunk not sober 😂😂🇰🇪🇰🇪🇰🇪tough keyboard warrior

[@stevves4647]

@@itgamingke Ancestral Lands? Since when did NFD belong to Kenya?

[@tiredox3788]

Any future videos on countries in Latin America and Caribbean? Also, keep up the great you are the only channel that talk about the smallest news around the world.

[@aliyoo4158]

Excellent!

[@JamesKerLindsay]

Thanks!

[@abdulbassitmohammed1915]

I've followed the case for the last three years and the final ruling of ICJ was just and in favor of Somalia. However, the decision and law enforcement of ICJ has cast doubt among Somali people when president Uhuru in his televised speech blatantly rejected the decision. In fact, this has enthusiastically United the different Somali factions and Formajo has gained trust and reputation among his people. I don't see any other alternative solutions but to wage war politically.

[@MaddoxKillgore]

Somalias economy is about 3 billion dollars that's the size of Kenya's foreign remittances. Somalia also lacks the geopolitical might that Kenya has. No hope, unless they agree to Kenya's terms the sea will stay in Kenya untouched.

[@Farhan917]

@@MaddoxKillgore Kenya with its GDP still taking an L facing Somalia today. Kenya needs to understand that they are facing free people who hold the longest coastline in Africa.

[@MaddoxKillgore]

@@Farhan917 what L ? The sea is yours but Kenya still holds it.

[@Farhan917]

@@MaddoxKillgore Kenya isn't holding or protecting anything be honest 😓

[@MaddoxKillgore]

@@Farhan917 Somalia doesn't have a navy or capable allies, so when you sell your blocks Kenya will also cash in. It's called tact, Somalia is weak why should Kenya bow to an inferior country.

[@Pavlos_Charalambous]

I don't want to be the sinical one but i have that feeling that only a Somali navy could enforce their legal rights.. Also i can't help myself thinking that if countries start ignore the international laws in such a profound way they could potentially open " Pandora's box" on a global scale

[@theancientsancients1769]

Yes, Kenya benefited from the Somali civil war and tried to expand. But Kenya is in a weak position , Somalia borders ethnic Somali region in Kenya , plus it's rebuilding its navy which used to be Africa largest navy

[@Avaricumstudios]

@@theancientsancients1769 you clearly have no idea of what determines military strength, in military terms and to a large extent international politics you're as powerful as your allies now Somalia is in a very weak position when it comes to international allies .....it's neighbours in Kenya and Ethiopia have wayy bigger populations hence bigger frontier markets and this gives them a better position in international politics and don't underate the fact that they have huge Christian populations...now this is where it gets interesting ...a strong Somalia (if that were achievable given the fact that clan divisions run deep) would be in a direct threat to interests of Kenya and Ethiopia hence the real global powers tend to shy away from supplying Somalia with economic and military support and this is why you see Somali politicians allying themselves with the Arab world and countries like Turkey...

[@Qubanaha_Uurdoox]

@@Avaricumstudios your understanding of international politics specially the allies of each country of horn is great. But let me remind you one thing the Christian world is declining back ward as they were last leading 150 yrs, so as you brainwashed by Christians before, be ready 😌 another brainwash from China, as Kenya in is in the trap of china.

[@Avaricumstudios]

@@Qubanaha_Uurdoox it's not about religion it's basic hard economics

[@Qubanaha_Uurdoox]

@@Avaricumstudios on the economy you're nothin, we have longest coast line of whole Africa, 2 rivers, 7million camels(highest number in the world), 5 million cows, 10 million sheep and goats, cheapest internet connection in whole Africa, 3rd nation with youngest people under 30years old around the world, 10 icelands........ I can not count don't forget oil and gas exceptance both on land(at 80's there are 5 wells ready but closed for civil war) and sea. We just need peace, and political stability, and that is coming soon

[@eljamaicano1]

Please talk about the Essequibo dispute between Guyana and Venezuela since this border dispute could even end in war in 3 years

[@JamesKerLindsay]

Thanks so much. I will certainly look into it. I always like to cover situations with an interesting wider angle, and I think that this might have a very interesting one!

[@wawerugichuki8155]

great essay

[@enduser8410]

It's interesting that countries, be it Kenya (this maritime dispute), China (SCS ruling), or the US (overextended maritime EEZ disputes with many countries), will participate in international law and adjudication until it stops benefitting them.

[@catalinmarius3985]

Love the videos about unpopular parts of the world that nobody knows about! I know I already asked you about Romania-Moldova-Transnistria-Russia issue, but if you have the time, would you consider making a video about China and Tibet, Taiwan, Hong Kong, Uyghur & South China sea issues? I love your neutral and factual presentation of the issues.

[@JamesKerLindsay]

Thank you so much. I love doing these topics, especially when they have so much obvious wider relevance. But these videos can be very hit and miss. My one on Mozambique did brilliantly. But many others just don’t seem to get that many views. Let’s see how it does.🤞Funnily enough, China related ones also tend do very badly. I’m not sure why. I guess it’s a bit of a crowded market - and more factual type videos aren’t maybe as popular as the more militarised ones. I know I owe you one on Moldova and Romania and on Transnistria. I haven’t forgotten! I’ll try to get round to it. Sorry!

[@tiredox3788]

@@JamesKerLindsay A lot of videos on China to the point where you got channels that mostly focus on China. You should do more videos on countries people barely talk about.

[@catalinmarius3985]

@@JamesKerLindsay No problem, thank you for your videos! I know that flashy news and sensational talks are what attracts most people nowdays, but I appreciate your to the ground and objective style of presenting. You cannot even be considered social media as you are an actually informative source. It's very possible that this may be the case, with China being a crowded market. Which of your videos performed the best and why you think that is?

[@JamesKerLindsay]

@@catalinmarius3985 Thanks so much! The best performing video I’ve done was on Turkey and the West, a few weeks ago. Currently at almost 130k views. But generally the best performing ones are on things that are a little less obvious. The worst performing are often on the bigger strategic topics. China, Russia, etc. Again, I guess it’s because a lot of people tackle them. And also tend to tackle them in a sensationalistic way. But obviously I’m not going to chase views by going down that route! :-)

[@JamesKerLindsay]

@@tiredox3788 Thanks. I like these topics too. It’s a bit hit and miss as to whether people watch them though! :-)

[@minghan7313]

Mr James do you think that Kenya could really de facto control these areas considering the Somali population is on both sides of the border and Kenya not having a very big navy? What is your opinion on the un arms embargo on Somalia is it outdated since there is a central government now that controls the majority of the territory of the state?

[@azakzaak1691]

Kenya and other immediate neighbors have spent over the last 30 years to undermine and contribute to the instability of Somalia to keep Somali government weak and precisely for the maritime issue, and Kenya has miserably failed to stop Somalia. The content creator explained well Kenya's attempt on that. Somalia is in its most strong position than it has ever been over the last 30 years. Somali state in work in progress after long unrest. Somalia's has succeeded in its main objective which was to establish the boundary legally through an international mechanism to deter international companies to even think engaging Kenya while Somalia is rebuilding its institutions. The next stage is enforcing the ruling and Somalia will do that when the time is right but now the case is closed as far as Somali concerns whether Kenya accepts and rejects, it does not really mater.

[@theancientsancients1769]

Kenya has many friends that Somalia hast lost during the civil war.. but Somalis is rebuilding its military and navy and is getting once the embargo is vetoed by China next year warships from Turkey and Qatar . Naval forces are already trained by NATO member Turkey and Pakistan soon

[@TheLocalLt]

If Somalia is able to continue on its recovery it could eventually have the ability to exploit it in a few years. They’ll need a navy first though

[@stokitho]

@@azakzaak1691 WTH DUDE,KENYA HAS NOTHING TO DO WITH YOUR OWN CREATED PROBLEMS,REMEMBER WE GAVE YOU A PLACE TO SLEEP,WHEN YOU GUYZ WERE TEARING EACH OTHER UP😏

[@marianali6054]

Kenya must accept reality 🇸🇴🇸🇴🇸🇴🇸🇴🇸🇴🇸🇴

[@Nark0Punkz]

There's precedent in Colombia rejecting the ICJ ruling when they lost their case against Nicaragua, Colombia still patrols the disputed waters with 0 pushback from the international community due to Nicaragua's bad image, so there's a footprint for Kenya to follow, make sure Somalia is as unstable as possible and noone will come to back them and you keep de facto control of the disputed territory with very little negative PR.

[@JamesKerLindsay]

Thanks so much. Great point. You are absolutely right. I sort of alluded to this when I mentioned the bit towards the end about it being unclear whether Somalia would have much success following it up with resolutions in international organisations. I suspect Kenya has quite a lot of friends. But still, ignoring the Court in this way is another step towards undermining international law. Not good for anyone in the long run!

[@khalidg4429]

@@JamesKerLindsay I would agree with your last statement. If Kenya refuses to follow international law then they open the door for future Somalia to make a claim in its NFD Somali region. With Ethiopia at a cross road many Somalis are rumbling of breaking off. Let’s not forget that Somalia has been colonized only one lifetime ago and maps as we know change. If Kenya refuses this boundary they are opening a Pandora’s box, this actually works out for Kenya because it makes Somalia stake a claim without infringing on the NFD area of Kenya. But if Kenya gets bold they might risk losing a chunk of the north.

[@MrMaboboz]

@@khalidg4429 Dont think Kenya particularly cares about the north.

[@Pavlos_Charalambous]

@@cosmo_mosythe area is full with " private contractors " shipping and fishing companies are using extensively , so there is a patern for the oil industry to use ... Only a real Somali navy could have an impact

[@azakzaak1691]

Kenya and other immediate neighbors have spent over the last 30 years to undermine and contribute to the instability of Somalia to keep Somali government weak and precisely for the maritime issue, and Kenya has miserably failed to stop Somalia. The content creator explained well Kenya's attempt on that. Somalia is in its most strong position than it has ever been over the last 30 years. Current Somali government may be weak government due to the savage terrorist group and external enemies that are undermining its progress, but the Somali people are protectors of the nation. Somalia's has succeeded in its main objective which was to establish the boundary legally through an international mechanism to deter international companies to even think engaging Kenya while Somalia is rebuilding its institutions. The next stage is enforcing the ruling and Somalia will do that when the time is right but now the case is closed as far as Somali concerns whether Kenya accepts and rejects.

[@celestinmukami822]

Nairobi does not and will not accept.we will not let our country be taken again, by blood

[@AncalagonJJ]

Great video, another case of maretime disputes international Court of Justice is the case of Nicaragua-Colombia in the it would be interesting if you could do a video about that

[@JamesKerLindsay]

Thanks so much for the suggestion. I really appreciate it! I will certainly take a look at it.

[@number1kenyan]

Kenyan here, our president has sworn not to give an inch of land to Somalia and he claims Somalia is being ungrateful despite us helping them against al shabaab (most of western Somalia is occupied by the Kenya Defence Forces) but it doesn’t seem like things will escalate to all out war (but tensions are rising due to us recognizing Somaliland) If you have any questions please ask me

[@number1kenyan]

@A. A. That's true, Kenyatta is a terrible president and it's evident he's using this as scapegoat, so glad he;s getting out of office next election in 2022

[@toknownow]

Kenya already has portion of Somalia gave by Britain 🇬🇧 and now trying to take advantage of Somali situation but it will regret

[@wanjikukimari]

In Kenya we say, "Not an Inch Less, Not an Inch More. " We'll never accept that ruling.

[@JamesKerLindsay]

Except that the world’s highest court has in fact decided that Kenya is unjustly claiming many thousands of square miles more!

[@tormundgaint1022]

Everyone trying to cheat and steal from the Somalis lol. Ethiopia stole half of their land as well. Saying hi from Uganda.

[@MaddoxKillgore]

That's what happens when your country is weak. Idi Amin tried to steal Kenya in the 70s. He failed, that's geopolitics 101. Until then nothing changes.

[@MohamedAhmed-uw3fu]

Ethiopia never stole land from Somalia, the Ogaden region was given to them by the British. No neighbouring country can claim and inch of Somali republic. The Nfd and Ogaden will either become a country or joint the greater Somalia Insha’Allah

[@MaddoxKillgore]

@@MohamedAhmed-uw3fu people of northern Kenya don't want to join Somalia. That was the 60s, it's different now. They are ahead of Somalia now.

[@nakambokazekula4403]

Disputes everywhere. Somalia seem to have valid argument in this case.

[@ahmedkhalif6747]

Somali is coming back this is Somali ocean

[@havilahkuush7110]

It's our sea 🇸🇴 there will be no negotiations the ICJ has decided keep crying. Turkey is already drilling oil in South Somalia. 😂😂

[@itgamingke]

😂😂😭😭Turkey taking over Somalia and you're proud of that lol . Neo colonism at its finest 👌

[@havilahkuush7110]

@@itgamingke You are a Zanj Bantu Enough Said! 😂😂 en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Slavery_in_Somalia

[@alialijama9098]

Professor, could a claim be made for ethnic secession say for Somalis in Kenya and Ethiopia through a legal or democratic route without war ? Claims on colonial contracts or self determination ?

[@somcana]

It is resolved. The sea belongs to Somalia. Kenya already was given a somali ethnic region by the British. We aught to claim that back.

[@itgamingke]

You guys killed them with attacks from the al shaababs then praised them remember the Garissa attack from Somalia that killed innocent Somali Kenyans ?

[@adar5901]

Greater Somalia is pending!!!

[@boborock2012]

James, can you please do a video on the 5year long civil war going on in Cameroon?

[@JamesKerLindsay]

Thanks. I’ve already done one kzbin.info/www/bejne/bJS7iapoqbV5mbc

[@DotiVirtuoso]

most Somalis crying foul and insulting regular Kenyans in the comments are in Kenya and holding Kenyan ID. none of them will be willing to go back to Somalia if they were provided with free first-class transportation. most Kenyans just like most Somalis knew about this conflict through the media. all we can all do is pray that the next president is more understanding because president Uhuru doesn't back down

[@onlyme562]

half of Kenya belongs to Somalis, so, they will never live, until you give that land back, then you won't have to deal with us.👍🏽👍🏽

[@futuredoctor1966]

If our African brothers Ethiopia and Kenya don't accept African borders before Europe colonial we wil fight until the end of the world Dear African brothers i don't have Ethiopia region or Kenyan regions in Somali Republic How they can have Somali region in Ethiopia and Somali region in Kenya As Somali people we need freedom and unity of great Somalia the greater Somalia or the Death 🇸🇴✌

[@Qubanaha_Uurdoox]

You're Absolutely Right

[@tonnyanthonys2159]

While Somalis in the rocky Somalia panting to migrate to those respective regions to taste peace and prosperity, where stabilization and sanity are provided by the rest of the communities

[@MaddoxKillgore]

Kenya and Ethiopia will crush Somalis in a war. No respectful country will take your side. I know it sucks, no shortcuts.

[@MaddoxKillgore]

@Ligma lol, Somalia is decades behind Kenya. The economy of Somalia is about 3 billion dollars, that's the size of Kenya's foreign remittances. 😂

[@jakobjama4612]

that's the spirit waryaa💪🏿💯

[@mediacare6744]

I'm Kenyan and guess what, no inch more, no inch less!

[@JamesKerLindsay]

Indeed. But no inch more of less of the boundaries ruled by the International Court of Justice. Seriously, this matters. Kenya is undermining the international rule of law. This is not a good look. And, as has been pointed out, it cannot exploit those areas now anyway. No energy company will sign a deal with Nairobi covering what is now Somali territory. Better to just accept it and move on. This was done legally and correctly.

[@briant5685]

@@JamesKerLindsay before telling us that international rule of law bs,ask yourself does your country follow the same rule..?or they follow it when it suits their need......???you can even right a book if you want,some dudes won't determine where our borders will start or end just the way your nation doesn't allow them to tell you to relinquish your illegal oversees territories

[@tylerspunucious7420]

I still hope there's a video on the Bhutan-India-China border disputes in the future

[@JamesKerLindsay]

Thanks. I will look into it. The trouble is that I find that these types of videos get very few views. A lot of effort goes into making them and then they just disappear. Importantly, there isn't even a residual search value in them - as there is with a lot of my more unusual videos that can build up thousands of views months after they have been made. I know that this shouldn't matter, but given the amount of time and expense that goes into making each of these videos I really would like to feel that they at least get a bit of an audience. (Equipment, software, subscriptions and my time, hence my membership drive at the moment kzbin.infojoin for anyone reading this.) Seriously, my videos on Asia and the Americas tend to do really, really badly compared to my ones on Europe and Africa. Obviously, I still want to do them, but there is a cost-benefit element to it. Also, if you have any ideas why the videos on Asia might do so badly, do let me know. Always keen to hear thoughts.

[@DeejayGrafixx]

We all know the real boarder line is infringing into kenyan waters we shall not allow our sister somalia to take over.Somalia owes its rise to kenya they should respond in kind.how can you be at the beach you are in kenya but afew meters into the water you are in somalia..This is a dispute that is unrealistic honestly .Maybe even fueled by the western countries.Somalia should not think to listen to the west there are more somalis in kenya than there are somalis in somalia

[@MaddoxKillgore]

At the end of the day, the sea will remain with the bigger country. Somalia cannot match up to Kenya, until then they can keep the papers. Kenya will keep the sea.

[@Farhan917]

There's no sea name after Kenya. Kenya needs to understand who's top dog of the sea lol

[@MaddoxKillgore]

@@Farhan917 Kenya is on top of Somalia in literally everything but terrorism.

[@Farhan917]

@@MaddoxKillgore Is that what your masters told you?

[@abdisahal319]

@@MaddoxKillgore you dreaming woke up sweetheart

[@onlyme562]

@Lewis Muchiri no one understand booga buuga, English please

[@thinkbeforeyoutype7106]

Kenya know it has NO case in stealing Somalia’s waters when it’s struggling. They’ve LOST this case and if they don’t accept it, they will LOSE more than what they bargain for. They think their western colonials will always backed them when in reality they will be deserted and abandoned just like the previous regime in Afghanistan before the Taliban took over. Be careful what you wish you.

[@Kenia-sn1cg]

Kenya has 3 times larger population and 20 times your economy size, Ethiopia alone has 5 times your population size and an economy that will be 30 times larger your size by 2030. You think you can take territory from the two countries which have a mutual defense treaty against Somalia all for a population that does not want to be part of your country. unlike the Kurds who show overwhelming support for forming a Kurdish nation, very few Somalis living in Kenya want a Somali ID, even the refugees refuse to go back

[@EdMcF1]

Slovenia and Croatia were a model of a dispute resolution, Slovenia had no access to international waters without going through Italian or Croatian waters due to land borders' positions. They now have a corridor through Croatian waters to the Adriatic high seas. Surprised it wasn't sorted on EU accession.

[@duncancreativecorner]

Hello Prof, I would like to bring to your attention the boundary issue that arose during Somalia's election period. At that time, the then-president sought to leverage the boundary matter for political advantage, similar to what happened in 1966 when the president lost the elections. Additionally, the court you mentioned is perceived as a political entity, especially since the 2007 violence in Kenya. Its reputation was further compromised in this case when some Nordic countries viewed Somalia as a more cost-effective option for oil block mining in the disputed corridor. Moreover, if Kenya accepts the resolution, it could have a ripple effect extending all the way to South Africa. Therefore, it's not just a Kenyan problem; it's an African problem. While considering international law is crucial, it's essential to recognize that Africans did not establish these borders. They were defined during the Berlin Conference. When another European country raises a maritime issue, especially with a nation that has been in conflict for over 30 years, Kenya perceives it as a second round of exploitation. This sentiment is amplified when dealing with a country lacking a stable government and control beyond Mogadishu. It appears as if two nations are being pitted against each other, with a president residing in Nairobi and 80% of their politicians based in Kenya.

[@somalipatriot9238]

The reason british empire gave somali territory to kenya is because Britain discovered oil in the disputed area in the colonial era they wanted this oil for kenya 🇪🇹🇰🇪🤛' 🇸🇴🇩🇯👍 the same goes to Eithopia ' ogaden oil was discovered by Britain 1950 and 1955 it annexed ogaden to Eithopia 😔

[@abzlibaax7412]

Insha Allah bro we will get our land and sea back soon.Our land still occupied by our brave Somalis in Ogadenia and NFD.

[@Shaleqa_Adenan]

Dude those regions were Ethiopians. Somalians left their country settled there during the colonial period. However most Somali lives in Ethiopia 🇪🇹 are Ethiopians since they were never been colonized. Like every Ethiopians, during the colonial invasion there ancestors bleed for their freedom to protect all Ethiopia 🇪🇹 regions. Don’t assume Ethiopia 🇪🇹 Somalia as British Or Italian slave because they speak Somalian. They are proud children of Hassan Sumter

[@raghedanan3959]

Nairobi needs to accept and move on.

[@Kenia-sn1cg]

The court chairman was somali which creates a conflict of interest, the judge refused to recuse himself which throws more shade to the impartiality of his rulings

[@sokhimsuy1067]

Hello, can you analisis about China's interest on Somalia and Kenya maritime dispute?

[@gw7768]

Very informative. Even to a non legal person, you do she'd good light on Kenya-Somali border issue. Am not surprised at Kenyans move. We are great at messing up things and thumping our chests!

[@theancientsancients1769]

Clear and precise info. Thanks 👍 Despite Somalia before it's civil war having been the undisputed regional power and losing that status in its civil war. Diplomatically and militarily it has been rebuilding fast

[@itgamingke]

Not really fast in the eastern african region😕

[@raghedanan3959]

@@itgamingke East African militaries are weak good example is current situation in Ethiopia. Kenya is also very weak and it has only 60 thousand troops so what’s else are East African regions?

[@mohameda7585]

It is resolved, the only issue is Kenya wants somali territory

[@itgamingke]

You guys want us but Bantu Somalis don't want you lol. Northeast belongs to Kenya everyone had a choice to either be Kenyan or Somali when splitting up the borders where they'll be raising their families

[@zeeshanrasheed2613]

Sir James ker Lindsay please 🙏 mention KASHMIR in your channel "about section"

[@AbdulHannanAbdulMatheen]

👏🙂 Interesting

[@Avaricumstudios]

In military terms and to a large extent international politics you're as powerful as your allies now Somalia is in a very weak position when it comes to international allies .....it's neighbours in Kenya and Ethiopia have wayy bigger populations hence bigger frontier markets and this gives them a better position in international politics and don't underate the fact that they have huge Christian populations...now this is where it gets interesting ...a strong Somalia (if that were achievable given the fact that clan divisions run deep) would be in a direct threat to interests of Kenya and Ethiopia hence the real global powers tend to shy away from supplying Somalia with economic and military support and this is why you see Somali politicians allying themselves with the Arab world and countries like Turkey...

[@Farhan917]

Somalia is in a strong position when it comes to Ethiopia who needs sea access and Kenya who has a small coastline. The West is already going back to Somalia like it did 60 years ago when they called it Switzerland of Africa.

[@TheLocalLt]

Great video as usual! Seems like this would be less of an issue if Kenya’s maritime boundary with Tanzania wasn’t drawn in that way. Kenya’s coastline here is a little bit like Iraq’s coastline in Basra, which was the a major cause of the Iran-Iraq War and a direct cause First Persian Gulf War. The issue with Kenya is exacerbated with that odd Tanzania border. Thank you for laying out the few circumstances where the ICJ’s ruling could actually affect things, such as Kenya being at fault for any incidents, it seems like this could be important if Somalia continues its recovery and gains the means to exploit this area. Normally, it seems that the traditional neoconservative assessment of the United Nations as laid out by Jeanne Kirkpatrick does tend to bear true in practice. It’s basically an advisory body and forum for the world, one that is vulnerable to the geopolitical demands of its members, which use the institutions of the UN to try and bolster their own agendas with international legitimacy, and if they subsequently fail to convince the UN they often simply ignore it. However you’ve of course just illustrated a scenario in which Kenya’s position on the UN/ICJ could leave them in a difficult spot, possibly at risk of sanctions in a few years time if Somalia is able to to develop the area and Kenya tries to physically prevent it. I’d guess this is unlikely though, as Kenya will know that, and thus will likely leave its protesting to diplomatic means. In my opinion, the only reason there is even any possibility of the judgment having an effect in this case is because of Kenya’s lack of global power, even as one of the more powerful countries in Africa. For example if a great power were in Kenya’s position, they would be able to basically ignore the possibility of UN sanctions as they can always muster a large enough support bloc to be able to act with relative impunity (although certainly expensive in political capital). For example, Britain did not think twice about ignoring the ICJ’s (possibly Beijing-influenced - as the CCP has basically hijacked the Decolonization committee) decision on Mauritius’ claim to the strategically imperative British Indian Ocean. Beijing of course does the same thing itself when it fails to find backing at the UN or one of its institutions. Edit: Side note, I’ve always thought the British pronunciation the country’s name, and its namesake mountain, is “Keen-ya”, I know I’ve heard that before but it must not be universal. In America it’s pretty much universally pronounced the way you did here anyways, “Ken-ya” In any case I’m rambling on, hope you’re well!

[@petersonmpeter4942]

To hell, not an inch more not an inch less, our fishermen are doing their business in disputed area as usual,what will you gonna do🤔

[@martino.n3192]

As a leader in green energy in Africa,Kenya is not interested in hydrocarbons,no more ocean pollution with oils and gas detrimental to marine life and air pollution.

[@hotmess2766]

Somalia is 2.6 (162 %) times bigger than the United Kingdom yet 16th century western Mercator projection map sure makes Africa smaller & Europe bigger 😂 The right country won and by the grace of God we got whats rightfully ours. Now we can start to get our huge chunk of land back from Kenya & Ethiopia inshaAllah

[@MaddoxKillgore]

The sea is still Kenya's, go to war....

[@hotmess2766]

@@MaddoxKillgore hahah its really Somali land & sea that Kenya want to steal but okay we'll see 😂 if only you knew history, you came from west africa lmao not the east

[@MaddoxKillgore]

@@hotmess2766 I know that, but it doesn't matter in this context. You lost out, another country rose through. Kenya is bigger than Somalia, no country will take your side despite the sea beings yours. You can only try to fight like the shiftas, but we all know how that will end. Lol

[@hotmess2766]

@Lewis Muchiri Uganda and Kenya are basically the same bantu countries 😂 yall are not even pure east African. East Africa belongs to Cushitic peoples

[@Kenia-sn1cg]

@@hotmess2766 Bantus came from the Congo, Nilotes from the Sudan but somalis are not even from the African continent, so what's your point?

[@iuroaoj]

This is a complex issue not least because it highlights the limits of sovereignty and subordinates a country national interests to the judgements of a supra national body. What complicates this issue is the lost of status of Somalia which can barely be accorded the title of a nation state. Can a country demand the rights of a nation state if it cannot operate as one.

[@joshuamwangi5565]

Its simple ..the international court ruled in favour of SOMALI BASED IN EUROPE.AS a Kenyan its really stupid and absurd for anyone to think we give a heck wat some corrupt foreign judges in a foreign land has ruled.. The area belongs to kenya n no leader of sound mind would even dare to give up any part of kenya . So my verdict is simple .. Let the documentation favour somali but let the ground remain a kenyan area and our president should use force if need be to keep it

[@duranabdi4105]

Remember Somalia is lion of Africa.

[@jakobjama4612]

always,💪🏿💯

[@dr.hossein8703]

James, can u do a story on NFD involving kenya and somalia...

[@JamesKerLindsay]

Thanks. Great suggestion! I would certainly like to look into this; especially as there was also the controversy over the British decision to cede Jubaland to Italy. It is a really interesting issue. I'd also like to look at Somali irredentism more generally, including Ogaden.

[@MaddoxKillgore]

Yes how Kenya crushed Somalis, do the Galla massacre too.

[@shemomwanza7502]

What if the ICJ decides to rule that a half of your country's territorial land is for your neighbouring country.....would you accept and move on...

[@JamesKerLindsay]

Thanks. But I’m not sure you understand. It is not half Kenya’s territory that was ruled to belong to Somalia. Kenya claimed territory. The ICJ applied international law to decide on what that claim should be. In reality, Kenya had claimed what in fact wasn’t its to claim! That’s the point. And so, yes, if the Court decided that Britain had made a claim that went against international principles then I would accept that and move on. That is how the law works. I might not like it, but I would accept it.

[@PillayAllRounders]

Hi from South African vloggers 🇿🇦 😀 ❤️ 🌍

[@JamesKerLindsay]

Hello there!

[@subeer670]

Do you think it possible that Kenya may now pursue even stronger relations with Somaliland? Personally I believe that the geopolitical situation in the Horn may swing more favorably in Somaliland's direction in 2022. Kenya may continue to pursue relations with Somaliland and there is a chance that Raila Odinga who has openly supported the recognition of Somaliland, is being positioned to be Kenyatta's political successor in 2022. Furthermore, it seems that Abiy Ahmed in Ethiopia (who moved towards a much more pro-Somalia position and away from the TPLF's longstanding support for Somaliland) my be losing his grip on power. What are your thoughts? Great video as always James!

[@azakzaak1691]

So basically you are suggesting that Somalis in the north and Kenya should gang up for Somalis in the south so that the resources that belongs to all Somalis are taken by Kenya?

[@joonbeel2254]

One Clan need indebende IS IT Like joke

[@TheLocalLt]

Kenya and Somaliland are both former British colonies and both (yes even Somaliland) enjoy sympathy in London, so yes there is definitely a correlation between the two, especially in contrast with the past 50 years in ex-Italian Somaliland, from Communism to warlords to outright anarchy to pirates to ISIS.

[@azakzaak1691]

@@TheLocalLt ''ex-Italian Somaliland'' has beaten the ass of Kenya on international arena and make Kenyatta a fool in front of the world despite all the effort that Kenya has done to pressure Somalia by even using like pimp the confused clan enclave region in the north of Somalia. Kenya is today the laughing stock on this issue.

[@TheLocalLt]

@@azakzaak1691 read my other comments on this video I give Somalia credit for being on the uptick. That being said Somalia is still fighting terrorist factions that control parts of the land near this disputed boundary, they have to clean that up first

[@amiir.1243]

James, can u just stop promoting Somaliland?