Relations between UAE and Somalia are on a steadily declining after the latter’s decision not to cut ties with Qatar, preferring to take a neutral position in the dispute between Saudi Arabia and Qatar. The diplomatic stand-off is reaching crescendo levels with both sides trading tirades. UAE is capitalizing on its economic muscle to coerce Somalia as Qatar takes advantage of the fallout.

The cultivation of a culture of respect for self-determination remains the greatest challenge to post-colonial Africa owing to Africa’s perceived dismal performance on economic and global influence indices. Africa can redeem its image by valuing its citizens, turning them into a productive resource, harnessing its abundant resources productively and forging a strategic continental and global agenda. UAE should respect Somalia’s right to freely determine its political, economic and cultural destiny without external interference.