Somalia has officially ratified the new IGAD Treaty, a move IGAD says will boost cooperation and strengthen the region’s capacity to address common challenges.
The Somali House of the People approved the treaty, signaling the country’s renewed engagement with regional mechanisms for peace, development, and mutual progress.
With this approval, Somalia joins Djibouti, Ethiopia, South Sudan, and Kenya as the fifth member state to ratify the treaty. IGAD described the development as an important sign of Somalia’s commitment to the principles of mutual respect, partnership, and sustainable growth that guide the regional bloc.
The organisation also highlighted that Somalia’s decision reflects its intention to contribute actively to regional stability and shared prosperity. This comes at a critical time when collaboration among neighbouring countries remains key to addressing political, economic, and security concerns across the Horn of Africa.
IGAD noted that the ratification coincides with the bloc’s 40th anniversary. Over the past four decades, IGAD has evolved to tackle emerging challenges, including climate change, trade development, and political tensions within the region.
The 1996 Agreement Establishing IGAD has been revised over the years through a comprehensive revitalisation process to strengthen the organisation’s legal and institutional foundations. This process resulted in the adoption of the IGAD Treaty of 2023, which will replace the 1996 framework once fully operationalised.
The new treaty is expected to enhance collaboration among member states in areas such as peace and security, climate resilience, infrastructure, health, trade, and social development.
IGAD Executive Secretary Workneh Gebeyehu welcomed Somalia’s ratification, praising 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.
He added that Somalia’s approval helps IGAD achieve the two-thirds threshold needed to strengthen the treaty’s legal foundation.
“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 the two-thirds requirement now met, IGAD said the region is moving closer to fully implementing the renewed framework, which will enable stronger joint action on shared priorities. The organisation reaffirmed its commitment to working with all member states to ensure the treaty’s smooth rollout and to promote regional integration aimed at building a peaceful and prosperous Horn of Africa.
