DJIBOUTI, Djibouti—Jan 21, 2026 – The Federal Parliament of Somalia has ratified the new Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) Treaty, marking a major step in the country’s commitment to regional cooperation, peace, and sustainable development.
The ratification aligns Somalia with fellow IGAD member states—Djibouti, Ethiopia, South Sudan, and Kenya—affirming its support for the principles of mutual respect, partnership, and shared progress that underpin the regional bloc.
The IGAD Treaty of 2023 replaces the Agreement Establishing IGAD of 1996, which has been revitalised to provide stronger legal and institutional frameworks for collaboration across peace and security, climate resilience, infrastructure, health, trade, and social development.
IGAD Executive Secretary, Dr. Workneh Gebeyehu congratulated Somalia, stating, “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 added that Somalia’s ratification helps IGAD reach the required two-thirds threshold, paving the way for deeper regional integration and coordinated action across the Horn of Africa.
With the renewed treaty framework now closer to operationalization, IGAD affirmed its commitment to work with member states to implement the treaty, strengthen regional integration, and promote peace, resilience, and prosperity in the Horn of Africa.
