Sudan rejoins IGAD two years after membership suspension

JUBA – Sudan has officially rejoined the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD), marking a significant diplomatic shift two years after suspending its membership over disagreements linked to the country’s internal conflict.

The regional bloc confirmed Sudan’s return in a statement, describing the move as a positive step toward restoring unity and strengthening cooperation in the Horn of Africa. IGAD Executive Secretary Workneh Gebeyehu welcomed the development, saying it reflects a renewed commitment by member states to dialogue, stability, and collective action.

“Sudan’s return is a reaffirmation of regional solidarity and our collective commitment to peace, stability, and cooperation across the region,” Dr. Workneh said. He noted that Sudan is a founding member of IGAD and plays a central role in advancing the bloc’s political, economic, and security agenda.

Sudan suspended its participation in IGAD in January 2024 in protest over the attendance of Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo, widely known as Hemedti, at an IGAD summit held in Uganda.

Khartoum objected to the regional body’s engagement with the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), which has been fighting the Sudanese Armed Forces since April 2023 in a war that has devastated large parts of the country.

The conflict has triggered one of the region’s worst humanitarian crises in recent years, displacing millions of civilians and crippling essential services. IGAD has repeatedly called for a ceasefire and inclusive dialogue to end the violence.

Dr Workneh said Sudan’s renewed engagement will strengthen IGAD’s unity and enhance its capacity to address shared regional priorities, including conflict resolution, economic integration, and cross-border security challenges.

He also commended Ismail Omar Guelleh, President of Djibouti and current Chairperson of IGAD, for his leadership in promoting dialogue and consensus among member states.

“His Excellency’s steadfast commitment to dialogue and consensus-building has been instrumental in advancing regional cohesion,” he said.

In its statement, IGAD reaffirmed its readiness to work closely with Sudan to support efforts aimed at achieving a peaceful resolution to the ongoing conflict and ensuring long-term stability in the country.

Headquartered in Djibouti, IGAD brings together Ethiopia, Kenya, Somalia, South Sudan, and Uganda, while Eritrea’s membership remains suspended. Sudan’s return restores the bloc’s full regional configuration at a time when cooperation is seen as critical to managing shared security and development challenges.