IGAD welcomes Sudan’s return after Djibouti-mediated talks
By Aloys Michael, February 9, 2026The Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) has welcomed the Republic of Sudan’s decision to resume full participation in the regional bloc, two years after it withdrew from the organization
In a statement on Monday, February 9, 2026, IGAD’s Executive Secretary, Workneh Gebeyehu, described Sudan’s reintegration as a reaffirmation of regional solidarity and collective commitment to peace, stability, and cooperation across the region, emphasising that, as a founding Member State, Sudan’s renewed engagement strengthens IGAD’s unity and enhances its capacity to address shared regional priorities.
Gebeyehu expressed gratitude to Ismail Omar Guelleh, President of the Republic of Djibouti and current Chairperson of IGAD, for his leadership in facilitating the process.
“We commend President Guelleh’s steadfast commitment to dialogue and consensus building in advancing regional cohesion,” he said.
The reintegration follows intensive Djibouti-mediated negotiations in late January 2026, which brought together Sudanese leader Abdel Fattah Idris and IGAD officials.
These talks culminated in an official communication from Sudan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation to the IGAD Executive Secretary, signalling the country’s readiness to re-engage fully in regional affairs.
During its absence, Sudan’s participation in IGAD decision-making and regional initiatives had been limited, affecting the bloc’s ability to coordinate on pressing issues such as conflict resolution, economic development, and regional security.
Sudan’s return is expected to bolster the organisation’s collective capacity to address these challenges and reinforce a united front in the Horn of Africa amid a deepening humanitarian crisis.
In its statement, the Republic of Djibouti, acting in its capacity as Chairperson-in-Office of IGAD, welcomed Sudan’s reintegration, noting the country’s pivotal role as a founding member and its strategic importance in promoting regional stability, development, and integration.
“Djibouti considers this decision as an important step toward strengthening regional cohesion and consolidating the momentum of collective action among Member States,” it said.
Gebeyehu reiterated IGAD’s commitment to working closely with Sudan to advance a peaceful resolution to the country’s current challenges.
“The Secretariat stands ready to support a secure and prosperous future for the Sudanese people and the wider region,” he stated.
With Sudan’s renewed engagement, IGAD member states are expected to intensify collaboration on key issues, including trade, infrastructure development, peacekeeping, and political stabilisation efforts, further solidifying the bloc’s role as a central platform for regional integration.
Attention now turns to how the country and IGAD will jointly navigate regional challenges, from border security to economic revitalisation and diplomacy.