Mudavadi, IGAD chief reaffirm commitment to regional peace

Prime Cabinet Secretary and Cabinet Secretary for Foreign and Diaspora Affairs Musalia Mudavadi on Wednesday held talks with IGAD Executive Secretary Dr Workneh Gebeyehu.

The two reaffirmed Kenya's commitment to promoting peace, security and regional integration across the Horn of Africa.

The meeting focused on the evolving peace and security situation in Sudan and South Sudan, as well as efforts to strengthen the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) and enhance regional cooperation.

Mudavadi said Kenya's prosperity is closely linked to peace and stability in the Horn of Africa, noting that a secure region creates opportunities for trade, investment and economic growth while protecting livelihoods.

He reiterated Kenya's support for African-led solutions to regional conflicts through sustained dialogue, inclusive political processes and stronger cooperation among member states.

"Lasting peace cannot be achieved through force alone. It must be built through consensus, trust and the participation of all stakeholders," Mudavadi said.

He added that Kenya, as Africa's diplomatic capital, will continue working closely with IGAD and international partners to advance peace and stability across the region.

Workneh welcomed Kenya's continued leadership within the regional bloc, saying the meeting explored prevailing regional developments and ways to further strengthen IGAD's institutional capacity.

"We reaffirmed our shared commitment to strengthening regional cooperation and agreed to work closely in advancing peace, regional integration and the effective delivery of IGAD's mandate," he said.

The IGAD Executive Secretary also expressed appreciation for Kenya's steadfast support and enduring partnership in pursuing a more peaceful, resilient and prosperous region.

"I deeply appreciate Kenya's steadfast leadership, continued support and enduring partnership in our collective pursuit of a more peaceful, resilient, integrated and prosperous region," Workneh said.

The meeting comes as IGAD continues to play a leading role in mediating conflicts and supporting peace initiatives in the Horn of Africa, particularly in Sudan and South Sudan, with Kenya remaining one of the bloc's key diplomatic partners.