Chapter 219: The Importance of Relationship Households
In the port of Bagamoyo, two majestic sailing warships were being handed over. Captain Blair of the Austro-Hungarian Navy was in charge of the delivery and introduced the warships to Archduke Ferdinand (Maximilian I), Commander-in-Chief of the East African Navy. Ferdinand expressed familiarity with the ships, as they had served in the Austrian Navy before being transferred to East Africa.
Ferdinand mentioned that he was grateful for Austria's support and handed over a letter of thanks for Captain Blair to deliver. The two warships, though retired, would significantly enhance the East African Navy's capabilities.
The port of Bagamoyo, strategically located at the mouth of the Little Rhine River (Lufu River) in East Africa, served as the East African naval base. While it faced competition from other ports in the region, Bagamoyo had unique advantages, including its estuary location and proximity to the political center of East Africa.
Ferdinand's role as Commander-in-Chief of the East African Navy required resources, and Austria had stepped in to provide assistance. Blair mentioned that the Austro-Hungarian Navy was willing to support Ferdinand by providing the warships and sending young officers as consultants to help develop the East African naval force.
Despite being cautious about the potential of the East African Navy, Blair recognized that with Austria's support, it could develop effectively. Ferdinand shared Blair's optimism but acknowledged the need for strong backing to realize the navy's potential, given East Africa's geographical conditions and limited resources.
As they discussed the navy's future, Blair emphasized the importance of strong backing for the East African Navy, as potential alone wouldn't be sufficient. Ferdinand agreed and added that without the support of a strong nation, even the best conditions could be wasted.
Blair cautiously expressed his optimism about East Africa's development in Africa, acknowledging that while it might not catch up with Europe, it had the potential to succeed in the African context. He pointed out that East Africa faced competition from Egypt, a semi-modern country with a strong military presence.
Captain Blair's journey to East Africa had taken him through the Suez Canal and the Red Sea before reaching his destination. Along the way, he noted the contrast between Egyptian cities like Mombasa and the quieter Bagamoyo in East Africa. He believed that East Africa had a long way to go to surpass Egypt but acknowledged its potential.
In the end, Blair's visit highlighted the importance of relationships and support from powerful allies in the development of East Africa, and Archduke Ferdinand expressed his gratitude for Austria's assistance.