Kenya’s National Assembly has ratified the Treaty Establishing the Inter-Governmental Authority on Development (IGAD), a significant step towards accelerating economic, social, environmental, political, and regional integration across the Horn of Africa.
The ratification signals Kenya’s strong commitment to regional cooperation and multilateralism, according to IGAD Executive Secretary Workneh Gebeyehu.
In a statement, Workneh praised the move as vital for strengthening the institution’s capacity to collectively tackle transboundary challenges affecting the region.
“The ratification of the IGAD Treaty by the Parliament of Kenya is a commendable step toward consolidating our institutional foundation,” said Workneh. “It enhances our collective capacity to address transboundary challenges and advance our shared aspirations for peace, stability, and sustainable development.”
Kenya’s decision follows similar ratifications by Djibouti, Ethiopia, and South Sudan, with the remaining member states—Eritrea, Somalia, Sudan, and Uganda—encouraged to complete the process promptly to ensure regional solidarity and institutional coherence.
The treaty, formally adopted at the 14th Ordinary Session of the IGAD Assembly of Heads of State and Government held in Djibouti in 2023, commits member states to maintaining peace, security, and stability in a region often affected by conflict, climate change, and economic challenges.
During the session, six heads of state, including Kenyan President William Ruto, signed the treaty, underscoring high-level political will to advance IGAD’s renewed mandate.
Kenya’s ratification is expected to bolster the organisation’s efforts in promoting sustainable development and peace across the Horn of Africa.
