February 15, 2026 (Addis Ababa, Ethiopia): The Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) today concluded a highly productive week at the 39th Ordinary Session of the African Union Assembly of Heads of State and Government and the 48th Ordinary Session of the Executive Council in Addis Ababa. Led by Executive Secretary H.E. Dr. Workneh Gebeyehu, the IGAD delegation actively advanced the region’s priorities in peace and security, climate resilience, sustainable water resources, and economic integration, while strengthening alignment with Agenda 2063 and the African Union’s 2026 Theme of the Year: “Assuring Sustainable Water Availability and Safe Sanitation Systems to Achieve the Goals of Agenda 2063.” Key highlights of IGAD’s engagement included:
- Groundwater Investments Side Event (10 February): In partnership with UNDP, IGAD spotlighted strategic groundwater development as a cornerstone of climate resilience and water security in the Horn of Africa. Executive Secretary Dr. Workneh declared: “Beneath our drought-scarred landscapes lies one of Africa’s greatest untapped resources… Groundwater is a strategic asset for climate resilience, economic stability, and human dignity.”
- Inter-REC Coordination and Cooperation Platform (13 February): IGAD successfully concluded its one-year Chairmanship of the platform and formally handed over leadership to the Southern African Development Community (SADC). The tenure strengthened AU-REC relations and deepened inter-REC collaboration across the continent.
- High-Level Bilateral and Multilateral Engagements:
- Welcomed the Republic of Sudan’s return to IGAD membership and held constructive discussions with H.E. Mohi El Din Salem, Minister of Foreign Affairs of Sudan, on peace, security, and regional cooperation.
- Met with H.E. Dr. Gedion Timothewos, Minister of Foreign Affairs of Ethiopia, to advance shared priorities on regional peace and security.
- Participated in the AU Ad Hoc High-Level Committee (C5) on South Sudan, reaffirming IGAD’s unwavering commitment to lasting peace and stability in the country.
- Joined other Regional Economic Communities in a strategic dialogue with African Development Bank President Dr. Sidi Ould Tah on the proposed New African Financial Architecture (NAFA). IGAD welcomed the initiative and pledged full support, noting its strong alignment with the IGAD Strategy 2026–2030.
Through these engagements, IGAD effectively projected the Horn of Africa’s priorities onto the continental stage, reinforced partnerships with the AU Commission, Member States, and development partners, and demonstrated the region’s indispensable role in Africa’s peace, resilience, and integration agenda. Executive Secretary Dr. Workneh Gebeyehu stated: “This Summit has once again shown the power of collective African action. IGAD returns home more determined than ever to translate the commitments made here into tangible results for the people of our region.” The delegation expressed gratitude to the African Union, host nation Ethiopia, fellow RECs, and all partners for their collaboration and looks forward to continued close cooperation in implementing the outcomes of the 39th AU Summit
