The Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) Secretariat has reaffirmed its recognition of the sovereignty and territorial integrity of the Federal Republic of Somalia. This statement follows recent discussions around Somaliland's recognition by the State of Israel, emphasizing that unilateral actions undermine regional peace and stability.

• The IGAD Secretariat noted that one-sided recognitions are contrary to the Charter of the United Nations, the Constitutive Act of the African Union, and the Agreement establishing IGAD.
• The regional bloc underscored the need to strengthen the effectiveness of regional institutions, calling for enhanced institutional capacity and closer alignment of member states’ interests.
• IGAD urged all international actors and stakeholders to support dialogue-based approaches that foster peace and stability across the Horn of Africa.

This week, Israel formally recognized Somaliland as a sovereign, independent nation, a move the author praises as long overdue and aligned with principles championed by President Donald J. Trump. This recognition acknowledges Somaliland's 30 years of self-governance, democratic elections, and peaceful power transitions, despite lacking international recognition.

• Somaliland has met every real-world test of statehood, including a defined territory, permanent population, effective government, national currency, and national military.
• The decision by Israel's Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is viewed as a "fact check" rather than a "gift," reflecting realism in foreign policy.
• The article urges other international partners, particularly the United States and other Western democracies, to follow Israel's lead and recognize Somaliland, citing its contribution to regional security and trade.

Kenyan President William Ruto, alongside other regional leaders, held talks with Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud following Israel's controversial recognition of Somaliland as an independent state.

• The discussions, confirmed on Saturday, December 27, focused on bilateral, regional, and global issues, with leaders reaffirming support for Somalia's sovereignty and territorial integrity.
• Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu recognized Somaliland, promising economic and agricultural support, a move condemned by Mogadishu and raising concerns from the African Union.
• Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, and several Middle Eastern countries including Saudi Arabia and Egypt have rejected Israel's declaration, describing it as a blatant violation of international law.