The 74th IGAD Council of Ministers session was held in Djibouti on September 16, 2026, under the chairmanship of the Republic of Djibouti. The meeting brought together member states, as well as representatives from the African Union, the United Nations, and the European Union. The session aimed to discuss pressing regional issues, including peace and security in the Horn of Africa, developments in the Red Sea and Bab-el-Mandeb, and the situations in Sudan, Somalia, and South Sudan.
The meeting took place against the backdrop of significant developments within IGAD, notably the entry into force of the new IGAD treaty. This treaty represents a crucial step towards strengthening the organization's institutional framework and enhancing cooperation among member states. The council reviewed the current situation in the region, focusing on peace and security, and discussed ways to bolster IGAD's capacity to address regional challenges effectively.
Djibouti's Foreign Minister, Abdoul Kader Husseine Omar, emphasized the country's commitment to supporting IGAD's cohesion and enhancing its role in promoting peace, stability, and development in the region. He highlighted the importance of collective action in addressing common challenges and encouraged member states to continue consultations and strengthen cooperation.
The Executive Secretary of IGAD, Dr. Workneh Gebeyehu, stressed the necessity of a strong and effective IGAD to achieve a peaceful, stable, and united region. He expressed appreciation for the support of member states and partners, emphasizing the organization's commitment to translating the collective will of its members into tangible actions benefiting the region's populations.
Key discussions during the session included the importance of Sudan's return to full IGAD membership, which would enhance the organization's capacity to address regional issues, particularly the Sudanese crisis. The reopening of IGAD's mission in Khartoum was seen as a positive step towards strengthening direct engagement between the organization and Sudan.
The council also deliberated on IGAD's role in facilitating dialogue, supporting political solutions, and promoting peace and stability. Member states reaffirmed their commitment to enhancing IGAD's financial and institutional sustainability, enabling it to respond effectively to growing challenges in the region.
The meeting concluded with Djibouti reaffirming its readiness to collaborate with all member states and IGAD partners to strengthen the organization's role in promoting peace, stability, and development in the Horn of Africa. The session demonstrated a renewed commitment among member states to work collectively towards addressing regional challenges.
Key points
- Djibouti hosts the 74th IGAD Council of Ministers session to discuss regional peace and security.
- The session focuses on cooperation among member states and IGAD's role in promoting peace, stability, and development.
- The new IGAD treaty aims to strengthen the organization's institutional framework and cooperation among member states.
