Nairobi, Kenya – Building upon its sustained commitment to regional peace and stability, the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) convened a significant Regional Forum for Eminent Personalities and Leaders for Peace in Nairobi, Kenya, on Thursday, July 24, 2025. This high-level gathering, a collaborative effort with the Government of Kenya, brought together a diverse and influential group of elder statespersons, former heads of state, respected religious and traditional leaders, accomplished scholars, sports icons, and civic leaders under the umbrella of the IGAD Council of Eminent Personalities.
The forum, strategically designed to harness the unique moral authority and impartial wisdom of these distinguished individuals, addressed the multifaceted crises currently confronting the Horn of Africa. These challenges, as highlighted by H.E. Workneh Gebeyehu, Ph.D., IGAD Executive Secretary and Chair of the Coordination and Collaboration Platform of Regional Economic Communities (RECs) of the African Union, in his keynote address, range from persistent terrorist insurgencies, notably in Somalia, and complex political situations in South Sudan and Sudan, to the devastating impacts of climate change manifesting as severe droughts, widespread flooding, and critical famine.
Dr. Workneh Gebeyehu underscored the vital role of the IGAD Council of Eminent Personalities as a “moral compass” for the region amidst these turbulent times. He emphasized that their legitimacy stems not from political power but from the deep trust they have cultivated within their communities and nations. Their unparalleled impartiality, inherent independence, and profound traditional wisdom equip them to navigate sensitive situations and bridge divides where formal diplomatic channels may encounter obstacles. Their stature as respected elders, former heads of state, accomplished scholars, and influential civic figures allows them to open doors and foster consensus, enabling timely and effective action in the pursuit of peace.
A notable aspect of the forum was the participation of iconic sports figures, further amplifying the message of peace and unity. Catherine Ndereba of Kenya, a celebrated long-distance runner and multiple marathon champion, and Derartu Tulu of Ethiopia, a legendary Olympic gold medalist in athletics, joined the IGAD Executive Secretary and other dignitaries in championing the cause of peace within the IGAD region. Their presence underscored the unifying power of sports and the influence these national heroes wield in inspiring hope and fostering solidarity across borders.
Mohamed Abdi Ware, Deputy Executive Secretary of IGAD, aptly captured the spirit of their participation in a tweet, highlighting their past achievements in carrying national flags to victory and their present dedication to advocating for peace. This inclusion of sports personalities within the Council of Eminent Personalities signifies IGAD’s innovative approach to peacebuilding, recognizing the broad influence of individuals who have excelled in various fields and command widespread respect.
Dr. Workneh Gebeyehu also reflected on IGAD’s upcoming 40th anniversary in 2026, framing it as a crucial juncture to reaffirm and intensify efforts towards achieving Vision 2050 – a prosperous, integrated, and peaceful Horn of Africa. To this end, he proposed two significant steps: first, to confer full diplomatic status on IGAD’s preventive diplomacy missions, enabling a more proactive and impactful approach to peacebuilding; and second, to formally institutionalize the Council of Eminent Personalities within IGAD’s policy organs, ensuring greater visibility, operational coherence, and sustained engagement of their invaluable expertise.
The forum witnessed the distinguished presence of H.E. Prof. Kithure Kindiki, Deputy President of the Republic of Kenya, and Hon. Hannah Cheptumo, Cabinet Secretary for Gender, Culture, the Arts and Heritage, Republic of Kenya, who also played a key role in the forum’s convening, highlighting the strong collaboration between IGAD and the Kenyan government. IGAD expressed its sincere gratitude to the Government of Kenya for its exceptional hospitality and unwavering commitment to facilitating crucial dialogues aimed at fostering regional stability. Furthermore, the continued and vital support of the Government of Japan in promoting dialogue and peace initiatives across the region was gratefully acknowledged.
The IGAD Council of Eminent Persons, as envisioned by Dr. Workneh Gebeyehu, serves as a “reservoir of wisdom,” guiding the region through the complex challenges of peace, security, and development. The Nairobi forum specifically emphasized the importance of bridging generations in peacebuilding efforts, connecting the rich experience of veteran mediators with the dynamism and fresh perspectives of rising women and youth negotiators who are shaping the future of the region. This intergenerational approach aims to build a more inclusive and sustainable foundation for peace.
The Regional Forum for Eminent Personalities and Leaders for Peace reaffirms IGAD’s deep-seated commitment to inclusive and participatory peace processes, championing African-led solutions driven by the wisdom and trusted leadership of its eminent figures. By formally recognizing and strategically engaging the Council of Eminent Personalities, IGAD is taking a decisive step towards transforming cycles of conflict into sustainable cooperation, ultimately striving to build a lasting peace that will benefit all the people of the Horn of Africa for generations to come. The outcomes and discussions of this forum are expected to inform and further strengthen IGAD’s ongoing peace initiatives across the region.
