Kigali (SONNA)— Rwanda has formally declared its support for Somalia’s unity and territorial integrity, aligning itself with statements issued by the African Union (AU) and the East African Community (EAC) following recent controversy over Israel’s reported recognition of a region in Somalia as an independent state.
In a statement released by the Rwandan Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation on 28 December, the government said it “fully aligns with the statements issued by the African Union and the East African Community in support of Somalia,” and called for a peaceful path forward grounded in shared prosperity and respect for international law.
The Rwandan statement adds to a growing list of continental and regional organizations that have rejected any move seen as undermining Somalia’s sovereignty. Earlier, the African Union, the European Union, the Arab League, and regional blocs including IGAD and the EAC condemned the reported Israeli action, describing it as a violation of Somalia’s territorial integrity and international norms.
Somalia’s federal government has consistently maintained that all regions of the country are indivisible parts of the Somali state, warning that unilateral recognition of any region threatens national unity and regional stability. Public anger over the issue has also been visible inside Somalia, with protests recently taking place in Mogadishu and other areas.
Rwanda’s declaration emphasized adherence to international law and multilateral consensus, reinforcing the AU’s long-standing position that Somalia’s borders must be respected. Analysts say the unified response from African and international partners reflects broad concern that external actions could destabilize the Horn of Africa.
