Kenya Ratifies IGAD Treaty, Boosting Regional Integration Efforts

The Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) has lauded the Parliament of Kenya for formally ratifying the IGAD Treaty, marking a major stride in East Africa’s journey toward deeper regional integration and institutional reform.

In a statement issued from Djibouti, IGAD Executive Secretary Workneh Gebeyehu praised Kenya’s move as a "commendable step toward consolidating our institutional foundation."

“The ratification of the IGAD Treaty by the Parliament of Kenya enhances our collective capacity to address transboundary challenges and advance our shared aspirations for peace, stability, and sustainable development,” Workneh said.

Kenya joins Djibouti, Ethiopia, and South Sudan in ratifying the updated IGAD Treaty, which modernizes the organization’s mission in light of pressing regional and global issues.

Workneh urged remaining Member States to follow suit “in the spirit of regional solidarity and institutional coherence.”

The revised treaty reflects IGAD’s expanded focus areas, which now include climate resilience, conflict prevention, digital governance, public health, and economic integration.

It is seen as a blueprint for shaping a cooperative and forward-looking Horn of Africa.

“This treaty is not just a legal document—it is a vision for a stronger, united region equipped to face both the crises and opportunities of our time,” Workneh added.

As IGAD pushes for full ratification across all eight Member States, the Secretariat reaffirmed its commitment to close collaboration with national governments to implement the treaty's provisions effectively.

The ratification by Kenya—East Africa’s economic powerhouse—signals growing political will to institutionalize regional cooperation and elevate IGAD’s role in addressing shared challenges in a turbulent era.