Sale of Lands Surrounding the Bay of Assab

The sale of lands surrounding the Bay of Assab marked a pivotal development in the region's maritime history. The local chief's decision to sell these lands to Giuseppe Sapeto, representing the Rubattino Shipping Company, was driven by the strategic importance of the area as a coaling station. This transaction occurred shortly after the completion of the Suez Canal, which significantly altered global shipping routes. The Bay of Assab became a crucial stop for vessels traveling between Europe and Asia, facilitating the refueling and maintenance of ships. The establishment of this coaling station not only enhanced the operational efficiency of shipping companies but also laid the groundwork for increased European interest in the Horn of Africa. The implications of this sale extended beyond commercial interests. In the following years, the Italian government recognized the strategic value of the Assab region and formally took possession of the colony from its commercial owners. This acquisition was part of a broader expansionist policy that included the control of Massawa and much of the Eritrean coastline. The Italian presence in the region would eventually lead to significant geopolitical changes, influencing trade dynamics and colonial competition in East Africa. The establishment of Italian control in Assab and its surrounding areas marked the beginning of a new era in the region, characterized by increased European colonial activity and the reshaping of local economies and societies.