Book Explores Diplomacy As Tool For Resolving Horn Of Africa Conflicts

By Mintesinot Nigussie  |  September 3, 2026

A new book examining the role of diplomacy in peacebuilding in the Horn of Africa has been launched in Addis Ababa, bringing together analysis of regional conflicts, border disputes and diplomatic approaches to resolving them.

Titled Diplomacy as a Peace Building Strategy: Approaches and Challenges in the Horn of Africa, the book was authored by Asefa Abiyu (PhD), Deputy Director-General of the National Intelligence and Security Service.

The book examines diplomacy not only as a mechanism for resolving conflicts and wars but also as a means of building sustainable peace, safeguarding national interests and addressing security challenges in the region.

At the launch ceremony at Addis Ababa University’s Ras Mekonnen Hall, reviewers said the book links diplomatic theory with developments on the ground in the Horn of Africa, where interstate tensions, border disputes and other security challenges continue to shape regional relations.

The President of the National Defence University, who reviewed the book, said its central objective was to demonstrate the contribution diplomacy can make to peacebuilding. He said the author draws on professional experience, leadership and academic research to examine the relationship between diplomacy, national interest and security.

Dr Bayulign Zemedagegnehu, a lecturer in political science and international relations at Addis Ababa University, said the book’s focus on the strategic importance of the Horn of Africa was among its strengths.

He said the book connects peace and diplomacy concepts with contemporary regional and international developments and provides 21 recommendations for policymakers and other stakeholders seeking peaceful approaches to conflicts in the region.

Ambassador Shibiru Mamo, who reviewed the book on behalf of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, said it examines the links between peace, diplomacy, security and border conflicts.

He said the book could provide diplomats, security personnel and students engaged in research with a better understanding of peacebuilding efforts in the Horn of Africa.

Dr Kenea Yadeta, the Prime Minister’s National Security Adviser, said border disputes in different parts of Africa could create security risks and described the book as a potential resource for stakeholders working on peace and security.

Ambassador Ibrahim Idris, coordinator of the Ethiopia International Boundaries Study Task Force at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, said the book focuses on border conflicts, peace and diplomacy, areas he described as major challenges for countries in the Horn of Africa.

Dr Asefa said his experience working in security institutions and diplomatic assignments, together with research undertaken while completing his PhD, provided the foundation for the book.

The author also announced that 100,000 birr from proceeds from the book’s sales would be donated to the Ethiopian National Defence Force, while another 100,000 birr would go to members of the Ethiopian Federal Police who sustained injuries while deployed in different parts of the country.

Source: FSX Business News