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Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud joined regional leaders for the 43rd Extraordinary Virtual Assembly of the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) on Wednesday, where discussions centered on the escalating security and political crisis in South Sudan. The summit, attended by heads of state from across the region, aimed to find immediate solutions to prevent further violence and instability in the war-torn nation.
During the session, President Mohamud reaffirmed Somalia’s commitment to regional peace and stability, urging all parties involved in the South Sudan conflict to prioritize dialogue over violence. He called for an immediate cessation of hostilities, emphasizing that continued fighting would only deepen the suffering of the South Sudanese people and threaten stability across the Horn of Africa.
“Somalia unequivocally calls for an immediate cessation of hostilities, de-escalation, and a return to dialogue. Peace and stability must be prioritized to safeguard the future of the South Sudanese people,” President Mohamud stated. He stressed the importance of diplomatic engagement and mediation efforts to address the root causes of the ongoing conflict.
The IGAD summit brought together regional leaders, including representatives from Ethiopia, Kenya, Sudan, and Uganda, who expressed concern over the worsening situation in South Sudan. The leaders discussed urgent measures to prevent further deterioration, including increased diplomatic efforts and potential peacekeeping initiatives. President Mohamud underscored Somalia’s dedication to supporting South Sudan’s peace process, urging all stakeholders to engage in meaningful dialogue to achieve a lasting resolution.
Somalia has also taken active steps to mediate between South Sudanese President Salva Kiir and opposition leader Riek Machar. The Somali government recently assured both leaders that regional discussions are ongoing to support stability and economic prosperity in South Sudan. However, tensions have continued to rise, with recent developments raising alarms across the region.
Earlier this month, security forces loyal to President Kiir arrested two government ministers and several senior military officials with ties to Machar. The arrests came amid violent clashes between the national army and the White Army militia, a group predominantly composed of fighters from Machar’s Nuer ethnic community. The fighting in the northern town of Nasir has further escalated tensions, prompting concerns that South Sudan may be on the brink of another prolonged conflict.
The international community has also expressed deep concern over the situation in South Sudan. The United Nations, African Union, and various humanitarian organizations have called for urgent action to prevent further violence and ensure that civilians are protected. South Sudan, which gained independence in 2011, has struggled with ongoing political and ethnic conflicts, leading to devastating humanitarian crises.
As a key member of IGAD, Somalia has continued to advocate for regional cooperation and peaceful solutions to conflicts in the Horn of Africa. President Mohamud’s participation in the summit reflects Somalia’s broader commitment to strengthening diplomatic ties and promoting stability in the region.
The Somali government has also faced its own security challenges, with ongoing efforts to combat Al-Shabaab and stabilize its internal political landscape. Despite these challenges, Somalia remains engaged in regional affairs, recognizing that instability in one country can have far-reaching consequences across the Horn of Africa.
As the IGAD summit concluded, leaders emphasized the need for continued dialogue and diplomatic efforts to address the crisis in South Sudan. The role of regional organizations like IGAD will be crucial in facilitating negotiations and preventing further bloodshed. With Somalia actively participating in these discussions, the country is positioning itself as a key player in regional peacebuilding efforts.
The coming weeks will be critical for South Sudan’s future, as regional leaders work to implement strategies aimed at de-escalating tensions and fostering sustainable peace. Whether through diplomatic negotiations, mediation, or peacekeeping efforts, Somalia and other IGAD nations remain committed to ensuring that South Sudan does not descend further into chaos.