Sunday December 10, 2023
Djibouti (HOL) - The 41st Extraordinary Assembly of the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) Heads of State and Government convened in Djibouti this Saturday, focusing on the crisis in Sudan. The summit, chaired by Djibouti President Ismail Omar Guelleh, brought together key African leaders and international delegates, focusing on the ongoing crisis in Sudan.
A major development at the summit was Sudan's General Abdel Fattah Al-Burhan's commitment to an unconditional ceasefire and engagement in political dialogue. The IGAD leaders also agreed to establish a framework for mediation efforts in Sudan, including the expedited appointment of a Special Envoy.
The assembly recognized the humanitarian crisis in Sudan, calling for immediate international support and condemning external interference in the conflict. The leaders endorsed a comprehensive report by the IGAD Quartet Group, led by Kenyan President Dr. William Ruto, and hailed the Humanitarian Access Agreement signed in Jeddah.
Attendees included Ethiopian Prime Minister Dr. Abiy Ahmed, Kenyan President Dr. William Ruto, and Somali President Dr. Hassan Sheikh Mohamud. Representatives from the African Union, the United Nations, and other nations with interests in the Horn of Africa also participated.
The summit's resolutions, encapsulated in a communique, will be presented to the African Union Peace and Security Council and the United Nations Security Council for endorsement. IGAD leaders resolved to remain actively engaged with the situation in Sudan, emphasizing their commitment to a peaceful and democratic solution.