IGAD and Germany Reaffirm 30-Year Partnership for Horn of Africa Development

The Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) and Germany have reaffirmed their longstanding partnership, pledging to strengthen cooperation on peace, regional integration, resilience, and sustainable development across the Horn of Africa. This commitment was made during their annual partnership dialogue in Djibouti, where officials reviewed progress in bilateral cooperation and discussed ways to expand their engagement in addressing regional security, economic, and social challenges.

The IGAD delegation, led by Executive Secretary Workneh Gebeyehu, and the German delegation, headed by Germany's ambassador to Djibouti, met to review their partnership spanning over 30 years. Both sides highlighted the importance of continued collaboration to address persistent challenges facing countries in the Horn of Africa. They focused on shared priorities, including strengthening peace and stability, building community resilience, promoting regional economic integration, and supporting sustainable development initiatives.

Discussions between the two delegations explored opportunities to deepen cooperation in support of regional efforts to address insecurity and improve economic and social conditions across IGAD member states. IGAD expressed appreciation to the German government and German taxpayers for their longstanding support to the region, acknowledging their contribution to development initiatives and regional cooperation. Germany has been a longstanding development partner of IGAD, supporting programmes aimed at strengthening institutional capacity, regional stability, and economic development.

The annual dialogue provides a platform for IGAD and Germany to assess ongoing programmes, align development priorities, and identify new areas of cooperation amid continuing political, security, and humanitarian challenges in the region. IGAD, headquartered in Djibouti, brings together eight countries in the Horn of Africa and neighbouring regions, working on regional peace, security, economic cooperation, and development. This partnership is crucial in addressing the complex challenges facing the region.

The meeting reaffirmed the commitment of both sides to strengthening their strategic partnership and ensuring that cooperation delivers tangible and lasting benefits for people across the Horn of Africa. IGAD and Germany have a long history of cooperation, with Germany providing significant support to development initiatives and regional cooperation in the region. This partnership has contributed to various development programmes and initiatives in the region.

The partnership between IGAD and Germany focuses on key areas such as peace and stability, regional economic integration, and sustainable development. Both sides recognize the importance of addressing the root causes of insecurity and instability in the region, including poverty, inequality, and lack of opportunities. By working together, IGAD and Germany aim to promote peace, stability, and prosperity in the Horn of Africa.

The renewed partnership between IGAD and Germany is a significant development in the region, as it demonstrates the commitment of both sides to addressing the complex challenges facing the Horn of Africa. The partnership is expected to have a positive impact on the lives of people in the region, promoting peace, stability, and sustainable development.

Key points

• IGAD and Germany have reaffirmed their 30-year partnership to advance peace, regional integration, and sustainable development in the Horn of Africa.