MOGADISHU — The Federal Government of Somalia has officially welcomed the decision by the Republic of Sudan to fully rejoin the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD), marking a significant step toward regional reconciliation.
In a communiqué released on Monday, Mogadishu praised Khartoum’s return as a “significant advancement” for collective security and diplomatic cooperation across the Horn of Africa.
Diplomatic Breakthrough
Somalia commended the diplomatic endeavors of Djibouti, under the leadership of President Ismail Omar Guelleh, current IGAD Summit Chair. The statement noted that Guelleh’s mediation was instrumental in facilitating Sudan’s reintegration, demonstrating “regional unity and mutual accountability.”
Tensions had previously fractured the relationship between Sudan and the regional bloc following the outbreak of conflict in April 2023. Khartoum had withdrawn from IGAD citing disagreements over mediation methodologies and the bloc’s interactions with rival military factions.
Somalia stated that Sudan’s return would provide fresh impetus to IGAD’s operations, enhancing its ability to address shared challenges in peace, security, and sustainable development.
Condemnation of Violence
Separately, the Federal Republic of Somalia issued a strong denunciation of recent criminal attacks attributed to the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) in North and South Kordofan states.
The government condemned assaults against civilian infrastructure and World Food Programme (WFP) relief convoys, which have resulted in civilian deaths. Mogadishu characterized these actions as “clear and severe breaches of international humanitarian law.”
Support for Sovereignty
Reiterating its stance on the conflict, Somalia expressed steadfast support for Sudan’s unity, sovereignty, and territorial integrity.
The Federal Government cautioned against external interference that could exacerbate hostilities, calling for all parties to back regional and international initiatives aimed at ending the humanitarian crisis affecting the Sudanese people.
