Across the Horn of Africa, countries are facing marked turbulence in their political transitions. The outbreak of war in Sudan in April 2023 serves as a stark reminder of the fragility of civilian transitions in the region – particularly those seeking to embed more representative and democratic structures of governance.
Many of the region’s challenges relate to conflict, resource contestation and transboundary divisions, and these are amplified by climate change and the competing interests of external actors.
A strengthened regional identity underpinned by robust institutions and a collective security architecture would support greater regional agency in managing complex and layered challenges.
To this end, during the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) assembly in June, significant reforms were announced, with leaders adopting a treaty establishing new structures and providing for a one-year rotating term of office for the chair. The Republic of Djibouti was selected as the chair, while the summit also saw the return of Eritrea to the bloc.
At this event, the Executive Secretary of IGAD, H.E. Dr Workneh Gebeyehu, will outline efforts to improve stability and further integration in the Horn of Africa.
He will also discuss priorities for restructuring the organization, following the adoption of a new treaty by the regional body.
