IGAD’s Executive Secretary Arrives in Mogadishu for Crucial Regional Cooperation Discussions

Mogadishu (AX) – Monday saw Dr. Workneh Gebeyehu, the big cheese at the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD), touch down in Mogadishu for a chinwag with Somali bigwigs, aiming to boost ties between Somalia and IGAD.

In a sit-down with Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, they chewed over burning regional issues like security hurdles, economic hook-ups, and IGAD’s ongoing projects in Somalia. President Hassan doubled down on Somalia’s resolve to tighten bonds with IGAD and to play a pivotal role in the region’s stability.

The marquee event of the trip was when Dr. Workneh inked a pact with Ahmed Fiqi, Somalia’s Foreign Affairs honcho. This pact sets up a Regional Centre of Excellence in Blue Economy, zeroing in on sustainable maritime growth—a savvy move to capitalize on Somalia’s oceanic bounty for economic prosperity.

Kudos were showered on Somalia by Dr. Workneh for its strides in nation-building, cracking down on violent extremism, tackling climate conundrums, and bolstering inclusive governance. IGAD’s unwavering support for Somalia’s dream of lasting peace and prosperity was reiterated.

“Somalia isn’t just an OG member of IGAD but a vital ally in our quest to foster peace and development in the Horn of Africa,” voiced Dr. Workneh, showing solidarity with Somalia’s journey towards enduring peace.

Furthermore, Dr. Workneh huddled with IGAD’s Somalia mission reps, spearheaded by Mr. Mohamud Karshe, to hash out ongoing regional agendas. His visit showcases IGAD’s steadfastness in aiding Somalia’s recovery and regional unity efforts.

IGAD’s collaboration with Somalia on cross-border projects and overarching regional ambitions underlines the beefing up of diplomatic and technical bonds, catalyzing long-term peace, security, and growth across the Horn of Africa.