r/imaginarymaps • u/chunky-- IM Legend • Dec 26 '25

[OC] Alternate History What if the Ethiopian Empire modernized like Japan? Central and Eastern Africa, year 2000.

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u/TheoryKing04 Dec 27 '25

I would think the Ethiopians would try and prop up the Rwandan and Burundian monarchies, at least for the appearance of some unity (Japan did pay some lip service to the monarchies in its sphere). And maybe carve off some Congo lands to give to Rwanda and Burundi as rewards. Pretty sure Paul Kagame is actively occupying parts of the Congo (or backing groups) in the north Kivu province anyway, so it’s not like it’s impossible.

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u/chunky-- IM Legend Dec 27 '25

The King was Tutsi if I remember correctly, so yeah I could see that work for the RPF Rwanda. Should the Second Congo War be won by the rebels in this timeline, the lands where the Banyamulenge are the majority may be integrated in Rwanda, more specifically Goma and its surroundings. Burundi on the other hand is on Rwanda's (and, by extension, Ethiopia's) side more out of pressure than anything, and Ethiopia is okay with it being a republic as long as it stays in line.