The Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) has welcomed the ratification of the new IGAD Treaty by Somalia, describing the move as a key step in strengthening regional cooperation in the Horn of Africa.
The ratification by Somalia’s House of the People of the Federal Parliament marks a significant milestone in the country’s engagement with regional mechanisms aimed at peace, development and cooperation.
With Somalia’s approval, the country becomes the fifth IGAD member state to ratify the treaty, joining Djibouti, Ethiopia, South Sudan and Kenya.
IGAD said the move reaffirms Somalia’s commitment to the principles of mutual respect, partnership and sustainable development that underpin the regional bloc.
The organisation added that the decision also reflects Somalia’s intent to contribute to regional stability and shared prosperity at a time when cooperation among neighbouring states remains important.
IGAD noted that Somalia’s ratification comes as the bloc marks 40 years since its establishment. Over that period, the organisation has evolved to address emerging political, economic, security and climate-related challenges affecting the Horn of Africa.
The 1996 Agreement Establishing IGAD has been subject to a comprehensive revitalisation process intended to strengthen the organisation’s legal and institutional foundations.
This process culminated in the adoption of the IGAD Treaty of 2023, which will replace the 1996 Agreement once fully operationalised.
The new treaty is designed to enhance collaboration among member states in priority areas including peace and security, climate resilience, infrastructure development, health, trade and social development.
IGAD Executive Secretary Workneh Gebeyehu welcomed Somalia’s ratification and congratulated the Somali Parliament and Government for their leadership.
“I extend my warm congratulations to the Federal Republic of Somalia on the ratification of the IGAD Treaty, and commend the Somali Parliament and Government for their decisive leadership in advancing this important milestone,” he said in a statement.
He added that Somalia’s ratification helps IGAD reach the two-thirds threshold required for strengthening the treaty’s legal standing.
“As IGAD marks its 40th anniversary, this ratification strengthens the legal foundation for deeper regional integration and more coordinated action in trade, peace, and sustainable development across the Horn of Africa,” Gebeyehu said.
“Together, we are building a stronger, more united, and more resilient region for our peoples.”
With two-thirds of member states now having ratified the treaty, IGAD said the region is moving closer to fully operationalising the renewed framework and enhancing collective action on shared regional priorities.
IGAD reaffirmed its commitment to working with all member states to advance the treaty’s implementation and deepen regional integration in pursuit of a peaceful, resilient and prosperous Horn of Africa.
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