Chapter 231

Chapter 231: Administrative Division Reforms

Constantine proposed the need for administrative division reforms in East Africa due to its expanded territory and the governance of newly occupied lands. Currently, East Africa comprised 18 administrative regions, with two regions designated as military occupation areas: the southwest (Zambia) and northeast (Somalia).

Of the 18 administrative regions, 17 were situated in the east, stretching beyond Mbeya, with only East Katanga district located in the southwest.

Constantine had long contemplated administrative division reforms. East Africa's vast territory and sparse population meant that the eastern administrative divisions were relatively small. Each division had a relatively small population, resulting in the inefficient allocation of administrative resources.

One issue was the need for changes in regions affected by East Africa's expansion, particularly for improved defense strategies. For instance, the coast along the Ruvuma River, bordering Portugal, was divided into the East Malawi Lake District and the Lower Coastal District. Merging these two districts into one could enhance the response to potential Portuguese threats. The coastal region, with its well-developed port of Mtwara, would complement Songea's growth.

The central coastal area, which lacked its own port, could be incorporated into the Central District, given that the Central District already had two excellent ports.

Additionally, the extensive prairie region in East Africa, situated deep within the interior, had been designated as an independent region due to its vast size, making it a haven for wildlife.

The Upper Malawi Lake District, where Mbeya City was located, appeared too small in comparison to the city's potential.

Moreover, the newly occupied northeast and southwest regions remained largely uncharted territory. Establishing local governance in these areas necessitated the creation of government departments. However, administrative personnel were limited in East Africa. To address this issue, existing administrative regions in the east could be merged, allowing officials to be allocated to the newly occupied regions. Such internal administrative adjustments would free up more personnel to manage the newly developed lands.

Von der Leyen expressed a differing view, emphasizing that the Abyssinian Empire posed little threat due to its size, population, and interests. He argued that even if the Abyssinian Empire were as powerful as East Africa, they would not engage in conflict, as East Africa had the upper hand in terms of timing, location, and the German nation's support. Moreover, the Ethiopian plateau, with its high altitude and environmental differences, was not an ideal expansion area for East Africa.

Constantine and Von der Leyen also discussed the situation of the Omorat Special Region and the role of the Abyssinian Empire. They concluded that the Abyssinian Empire was unlikely to pose a threat, and East Africa had already made strategic expansions to secure its borders.

In summary, the administrative division reforms aimed to optimize governance in East Africa's expanded territory while ensuring efficient resource allocation and strategic defense arrangements. East Africa's focus remained on securing its existing holdings and not pursuing further expansion to the north.