Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) secretariat has commended Kenyan Parliament following ratification of IGAD treaty.

Kenya’s nod to the new treaty adds to the momentum in the region to recommit countries in East Africa and Horn of Africa to the development, with three member-states – Djibouti, Ethiopia and South Sudan – having already ratified the treaty last year.

The endorsement marks a significant step forward in renewing their foundational agreement.

The new IGAD treaty, adopted by the heads of state and government during the 14th Ordinary Session of the IGAD Summit held in Djibouti on June 12, 2023, represents a major evolution in its regional framework.

It expands and diversifies areas of cooperation among member-states and strengthens our engagements with the international community.

Executive Secretary of IGAD Workneh Gebeyehu conveyed his gratitude yesterday in a statement to the government and people of Kenya for the significant milestone, saying it reaffirms the country’s steadfast commitment to regional integration, multilateral cooperation, and the principles underpinning IGAD’s mandate.

“The ratification of the IGAD treaty by the parliament of Kenya is a commendable step toward consolidating our institutional foundation,” stated Dr Workneh.

“It enhances our collective capacity to address transboundary challenges and advance our shared aspirations for peace, stability, and sustainable development,” he added

The executive secretary encouraged member states that have yet to finalise their ratification processes to do so at the earliest opportunity, in the spirit of regional solidarity and institutional coherence.

The new IGAD treaty reflects the evolving mandate of the organization, reinforcing its role in facilitating cooperation on critical priorities such as conflict prevention, climate adaptation, public health, economic integration, and digital governance.

“The IGAD secretariat remains committed to working in close partnership with its member-states to ensure the full implementation of the Treaty and the realization of a peaceful, prosperous, and integrated region,” Dr Workneh said.

The IGAD member states are Kenya, Djibouti, Eritrea, Ethiopia, Somalia, South Sudan, Sudan, and Uganda.

• A Tell Media / KNA report / By Wangari Ndirangu