Introduction:
The recently concluded 37th African Union (AU) Summit held in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, marked a significant moment for the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) and its member states. From high-level engagements to strategic partnerships, the IGAD delegation, led by Executive Secretary Dr. Workneh Gebeyehu, actively participated in various discussions and initiatives aimed at advancing regional priorities and fostering collaboration within the Horn of Africa and beyond.
The IGAD delegation made a significant impact across various summit events, including the 44th Ordinary Session of the Executive Council and the Heads of State and Government Assembly. These engagements facilitated the exchange of views, enhanced partnerships, and collectively addressed regional and continental priorities such as education, peace, security, sustainable development, and climate resilience.
Key Highlights and Achievements:
Throughout the summit, several notable developments for the IGAD region include:
- Appointment of AU Champion for Institutional Reforms: Kenya’s President, H.E. William Ruto, was appointed as the AU Champion for Institutional Reforms, highlighting Kenya’s dedication to regional and continental cooperation.
- Endorsement of Somalia’s Candidacy for the UNSC Non-Permanent Seat: The AU Executive Council officially endorsed Somalia’s candidacy for the UN Security Council non-permanent seat for 2025-2026, demonstrating confidence in Somalia’s diplomatic prowess and its ability to advocate for African interests on the global stage.
- Collaborative Efforts and Grant Agreements: The IGAD delegation collaborated with international partners to advance regional priorities and signed grant agreements with the Governments of Switzerland and Ireland to support the Ceasefire and Transitional Security Arrangements Monitoring and Verification Mechanism (@CTSAMM_SSudan) in South Sudan. These agreements reinforce IGAD’s commitment to peacebuilding efforts in the region.
Throughout the summit, the IGAD delegation engaged in constructive dialogues with various stakeholders, including;
representatives from the United States State Department, H.E. Amb. Mike Hammer and Assistant Administrator for the bureau Mrs. Monde Muyangwa.
UK Special Envoy for the Horn of Africa, H.E. Sarah Montgomery
Germany’s Special Envoy for the Horn of Africa, H.E. Amb. Heiko Nitzschke,
Former Prime Minister for Sudan, H.E. Abdalla Hamdok,
Ambassador of Canada in Ethiopia and Djibouti, H.E. Amb. Joshua Taban
Ambassador of Switzerland in Ethiopia and Djibouti, H.E. Amb. Pietro Mona
and Ambassador of Ireland in Ethiopia and Djibouti, H.E. Amb. Nicola Brennan
Minister of Foreign Affairs Brazil, H.E. Minister Mauro Vieira and other key partners.
These discussions focused on enhancing collaboration, addressing regional challenges, and exploring avenues for mutual cooperation in areas of common concern.
The 37th AU Summit provided a platform for IGAD member states to actively engage with regional and international partners, reaffirm commitments to peace and stability, and advance collective efforts towards sustainable development in the Horn of Africa. Moving forward, IGAD remains steadfast in its dedication to fostering cooperation, strengthening partnerships, and addressing the diverse needs of the region for the prosperity of its people.
