KHARTOUM — Somalia’s newly appointed Ambassador to Sudan, Dr. Ahmed Jama Omar, has formally presented his credentials to the Chairman of Sudan’s Transitional Sovereignty Council and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, General Abdel Fattah al-Burhan, at the Republican Palace in Khartoum, marking a significant step in the resumption of full diplomatic operations in the Sudanese capital.
The ceremony was attended by Sudan’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Muhyiddin Salim. Dr. Ahmed Jama Omar becomes the first ambassador to present his credentials at the Republican Palace in Khartoum since the outbreak of the conflict in Sudan, signaling the return of full diplomatic functions to the capital.
The move is seen as a reflection of the historical ties and close cooperation between Somalia and Sudan, which share longstanding political, social, and educational relations. Sudan has affirmed its complete support for the Federal Government and commended Somalia’s successful implementation of one-person, one-vote local elections.
Ambassador Ahmed Jama Omar had previously submitted copies of his credentials to Sudan’s Foreign Minister in April 2026 as part of the formal accreditation process. The ceremony in Khartoum reaffirms Somalia’s diplomatic presence in Sudan and underscores the importance Mogadishu places on maintaining relations with Khartoum during a period of conflict and political transition in Sudan.
Somalia and Sudan have signed agreements on visa-free diplomatic travel and defence cooperation, reflecting growing cooperation across multiple sectors. The two countries have also established a Political Consultative Committee to expand political dialogue, economic partnerships, and joint educational initiatives.
Somalia has welcomed Sudan’s return to IGAD, describing it as a significant step toward regional reconciliation and collective security cooperation across the Horn of Africa.
Sudan’s intelligence chief has previously visited Mogadishu to deliver a message from President al-Burhan to President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, focusing on strengthening bilateral security cooperation and addressing regional challenges.
Somalia has reaffirmed its support for Sudan’s unity and peaceful resolution through dialogue, emphasizing that peace in Sudan is essential for regional security and economic integration efforts under IGAD.
Somalia has strongly commended the Sudanese Armed Forces for reclaiming the Republican Palace in Khartoum, viewing it as a crucial step toward safeguarding Sudan’s sovereignty and advancing peace in the region.
Critical Note
While the accreditation of Somalia’s ambassador in Khartoum is a positive diplomatic development, it occurs against the backdrop of a devastating conflict in Sudan that has killed tens of thousands and displaced millions. The presence of a Somali ambassador in the capital does not diminish the severity of the humanitarian crisis or the need for a comprehensive political solution to the conflict.
Somalia’s engagement with Sudan must be accompanied by efforts to support peace and stability in the region, including through diplomatic initiatives that address the root causes of the conflict. The Somali government should also ensure that its diplomatic presence contributes to the protection of Somali nationals in Sudan and supports humanitarian efforts for those affected by the war.
