Somalia becomes fifth nation to ratify the IGAD Treaty

By Newsflash Reporter

Somalia’s Federal Parliament has ratified the new Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) Treaty, a move hailed as a major step forward in the country’s engagement with regional cooperation frameworks across the Horn of Africa.

The endorsement by the House of the People underscores Somalia’s renewed commitment to collective regional action on peace, development, and integration.

IGAD announced the milestone in a statement released on Wednesday, January 21, 2025, from Djibouti, describing the ratification as both timely and consequential for the bloc.

Boost to regional cooperation

By ratifying the IGAD Treaty, Somalia joins fellow member states—Djibouti, Ethiopia, South Sudan, and Kenya—that have already endorsed the new legal framework. The move signals Somalia’s support for shared regional goals anchored in mutual respect, partnership, and sustainable development.

IGAD noted that Somalia’s decision reflects its long-standing resolve to work with neighbouring countries in addressing cross-border challenges, including insecurity, climate change, economic integration, and humanitarian pressures.

The ratification also strengthens Somalia’s voice within regional decision-making structures at a time when coordinated action is increasingly critical.

The new IGAD Treaty replaces the Agreement Establishing IGAD of 1996, following an extensive revitalisation process. The updated treaty provides a stronger legal and institutional foundation to enhance cooperation among member states in key areas such as peace and security, climate resilience, infrastructure development, health systems, trade, and social development.

According to IGAD, the revised framework is designed to modernise the organisation and better equip it to respond to evolving regional and global challenges facing the Horn of Africa.

Leadership applauded

IGAD Executive Secretary Dr Workneh Gebeyehu congratulated Somalia on the ratification, commending both Parliament and the government for what he termed “decisive leadership.”

“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,” said Dr Gebeheyu.

With two-thirds of IGAD member states now having ratified the treaty, the region moves closer to operationalising the renewed framework. IGAD reaffirmed its commitment to working closely with all member states to implement the treaty and advance a peaceful, resilient, and prosperous Horn of Africa.