IGAD holds 28th summit in Somali capital

The Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) has been urged to continue engaging Somalia proactively in order to sustain stabilisation efforts.

Speaking at the 28th Igad Extra-Ordinary Summit of Heads of State and Government held in Somalia’s capital, Mogadishu, yesterday, President Uhuru Kenyatta commended the leadership and people of Somalia for their determination to address the challenges confronting them, particularly violent extremism and terrorism.

President Kenyatta said holding the summit in Mogadishu was an attestation of the confidence the region has on the Federal Government of Somalia, and its progress towards the restoration of peace and stability.

This is the first visit to Somalia by a Kenyan Head of State in 30 years.

The special Igad summit, that was also attended by President Yoweri Museveni of Uganda and Ethiopian Prime Minister Hailemariam Desalegn, discussed the progress Somalia has made towards security and stability.

Made progress

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Uhuru encouraged Somali authorities to implement governance policies and state formation as envisioned in Somalia Vision 2016 as they head to elections next month.

President Kenyatta assured that the international community and partners were ready to support Somalia to ensure that the elections are held in a timely manner and in accordance with the will and wishes of Somalis.

Desalegn, who is also the Igad chairman, said Somalia had made progress on the path of peace and stability but much more needed to be done.

“We are not there yet but Igad is confident that its efforts will succeed in the complete restoration of peace and stability in Somalia,” he said.

The leaders were also briefed on the South Sudan peace process and the progress made so far by Igad Executive Secretary Mahboub Maalim.

Kenya has been at the forefront in efforts geared towards sustainable peace in South Sudan. These efforts are driven by the fact that insecurity in South Sudan poses a serious threat to regional stability.