The Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) has applauded the Federal Republic of Somalia after it ratified the new IGAD Treaty.
The treaty for the formation of IGAD is the framework for regional cooperation geared towards the attainment of peace, security, integration and sustainable development. It endears its harmonized policies, uplifts free labour mobility and strengthens a collective fight against drought and famine.
The IGAD Executive Secretary, Dr. Workneh Gebeyehu congratulates Somalia upon its ratification of the treaty referring the decision to as a “decisive leadership in advancing this important milestone.” He states that the IGAD member states that have ratified the treaty are now a two-third of the member states.
“As IGAD marks its 40th Anniversary, the ratification by the Federal Republic of Somalia helps us reach the required two-thirds threshold, strengthening the legal foundation for deeper regional integration and more coordinated action in trade, peace, and sustainable development across the Horn of Africa. Together, we are building a stronger, more united and more resilient region for our peoples,” Said Dr. Workneh.
Somalia has been confronted with mammoth challenges related to climatic shocks such as drought which has made the people fall prey to hunger, according to the United Nations. STRATA estimates that 48% of Somalia’s population is affected by intersecting environmental, climate, conflict and socio-economic pressures including drought, flooding, land degradation, food insecurity and violent conflict.
Somalia now joins Djibouti, Ethiopia, South Sudan and Kenya which also ratified the new IGAD Treaty demonstrating its commitment to “mutual respect and partnership and sustainable development.” The IGAD Executive Secretary states explicitly that Somalia’s ratification of the new treaty will pay dividends to its people.
IGAD was established in 1996 however, the regional bloc has revised and replaced its treaty Initial Treaty with the IGAD Treaty of 2023.
