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This RECs Spotlight: Tracking Africa’s Peace Through a Regional Lens “IGAD: Dialogue and Mediation in Demand”, Authored by Dr. Mercy Fekadu and Dr. Kaleab Tadesse, and published by the Institute for Peace and Security Studies (IPSS) at Addis Ababa University in collaboration with Friedrich Ebert Stiftung, examines the rising demand for dialogue and mediation in the IGAD region amid escalating peace and security challenges between late 2023 and early 2024. The study highlights IGAD’s mediation efforts in two critical contexts: the Sudanese conflict between the SAF and RSF, and the diplomatic tensions between Ethiopia and Somalia following Ethiopia’s Memorandum of Understanding with Somaliland.
Despite IGAD’s proactive engagement, progress has been hindered by Sudan’s suspension of membership, Somalia’s rejection of Ethiopia’s actions, parallel peace processes, and sovereignty-based resistance to mediation. The report underscores the need for coordinated regional approaches involving neighboring states, the African Union, and international partners, while stressing inclusive peacebuilding that amplifies the voices of women, youth, and displaced populations. Ultimately, IGAD’s effectiveness depends on the commitment of conflicting parties and the ability of regional institutions to foster trust, unity, and human-centered solutions.
