The Horn of Africa, located in the easternmost part of the African continent, is considered one of the most strategically sensitive regions in Africa. Its unique geopolitical position has made it a focal point for regional security and international geopolitical competition. Ethiopia, as one of the key countries in this region, has long faced complex geopolitical challenges stemming from its quasi-federal political structure. Within this framework, the Amhara and Afar states play a decisive role in shaping Ethiopia’s ongoing crises.
This descriptive-analytical study, based on data collected through library research, seeks to answer the following question: What geopolitical factors influence power relations at the level of local governments in Ethiopia? The findings indicate that a combination of geopolitical factors—including disputes with the central government, neglect of civil rights of local communities, external relations, and prolonged drought—has contributed to increased instability and recurring crises in the region. The results further demonstrate that the local governments of Amhara and Afar are in a critical condition due to the interaction of internal and external geopolitical factors, highlighting the need for the implementation of appropriate policy strategies.