The Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) has welcomed the ratification of the new IGAD Treaty by Somalia's House of the People.
On Wednesday, IGAD described the move as a major step in the country's engagement with regional cooperation bodies.
The Eastern Africa regional bloc said in a statement that the Somali parliament's decision marked "a significant milestone" in Somalia's quest for regional peace, development, and cooperation.
By ratifying the treaty, Somalia joins Djibouti, Ethiopia, South Sudan, and Kenya, which have already approved the new legal framework.
Replaces initial treaty
IGAD said the move reaffirms Somalia's commitment to regional cooperation based on "the principles of mutual respect, partnership, and sustainable development that underpin the IGAD framework."
The new IGAD Treaty of 2023 replaces the Agreement Establishing IGAD of 1996, which has undergone a review process.
According to IGAD, the updated treaty provides a strengthened legal and institutional foundation for collaboration among member states in areas including peace and security, climate action, infrastructure, health, trade and social development.
IGAD's Executive Secretary, Workneh Gebeyehu, congratulated Somalia on the ratification, commending the role of the country's leadership. "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," Workneh said.
Two-thirds threshold
The IGAD chief noted that Somalia's ratification comes as the regional bloc marks its 40th anniversary and helps the organisation meet a key legal requirement.
"As IGAD marks its 40th Anniversary, the ratification by the Federal Republic of Somalia helps us reach the required two-thirds threshold, strengthening the legal foundation for deeper regional integration and more coordinated action in trade, peace, and sustainable development across the Horn of Africa," he said.
"Together, we are building a stronger, more united, and more resilient region for our peoples," Workneh added.
With two-thirds of IGAD member states now having ratified the treaty, the organisation said the region is moving closer to fully operationalising the renewed framework and enhancing collective action on shared regional priorities.
IGAD reaffirmed its commitment to working with all member states to implement the treaty.
