Leaders of the Horn of Africa recently convened for a high-stakes summit to address escalating regional tensions and shared challenges in a region often beset by political instability, economic hardships, and security threats. The meeting brought together heads of state from Ethiopia, Eritrea, Somalia, Sudan, Djibouti, and Kenya, highlighting the urgent need for dialogue and cooperation in a region where conflicts and climate-induced crises have compounded existing vulnerabilities.
One of the key items on the agenda was the enduring conflict in Ethiopia’s Tigray region, despite a fragile peace deal brokered in 2022. Neighboring countries, particularly Eritrea and Sudan, have expressed concerns about the spillover effects of such conflicts, including the influx of refugees and the destabilization of border areas. The leaders emphasized the importance of implementing comprehensive peace agreements and fostering inclusive dialogue among all political and ethnic groups to ensure lasting stability in Ethiopia.
Another focal point was the ongoing violence in Sudan, which erupted following a power struggle between the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF). The humanitarian impact of the conflict has been catastrophic, with hundreds of thousands displaced and a dire need for international support. Leaders discussed strategies to mediate the conflict, restore governance, and address the urgent humanitarian crisis.
Regional cooperation on counterterrorism also featured prominently in the discussions. Somalia, a frontline state in the fight against extremist groups like Al-Shabaab, appealed for greater regional support in its efforts to stabilize the country and rebuild its institutions. The leaders acknowledged that security in Somalia is intrinsically linked to the stability of the broader region.
Economic integration was proposed as a pathway to sustainable peace and development. The leaders explored initiatives to enhance trade, infrastructure connectivity, and resource sharing, recognizing the potential of collective efforts to address poverty and unemployment, which often exacerbate tensions.
Climate change, which has intensified droughts, famine, and resource scarcity in the Horn of Africa, was another critical issue. Leaders called for coordinated action to mitigate the effects of climate change, including strategies for sustainable resource management and stronger appeals for international climate financing.
While the summit underscored the complexities of the region’s challenges, it also demonstrated a shared commitment to fostering unity and resilience. However, translating these commitments into tangible outcomes will require sustained political will, inclusive governance, and meaningful international support to address the underlying drivers of conflict and instability.
