Kenya calls for stronger role of IGAD eminent personalities in Horn of Africa peacebuilding

With parts of the Horn of Africa still grappling with violence, insecurity, and political instability, Kenya has called for a more structured and strategic deployment of respected leaders under the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD’s) Council of Eminent Personalities to mediate conflicts and foster lasting peace.

Speaking at the IGAD Forum for Eminent Personalities and Leaders for Peace held in Nairobi, Foreign Affairs Principal Secretary Korir Sing’Oei noted that the region faces complex challenges that cannot be resolved through formal diplomacy alone.

“These issues from protracted conflicts to climate-linked humanitarian crises—undermine our region’s peace, stability and development. They demand innovative solutions that go beyond state-led processes,” he said.

Sing’Oei commended IGAD for recognising the critical role of respected individuals in advancing peace efforts, particularly through quiet diplomacy and behind-the-scenes engagement in conflict-affected areas such as Sudan, South Sudan, and Somalia.

He emphasised that their neutrality, credibility, and moral authority give them unique access to communities and political leaders, making them effective agents of dialogue.

Break deadlocks

“As custodians of societal values and voices of reason, these personalities can break deadlocks, inspire consensus and help rebuild trust,” the PS noted.

He called on IGAD to establish a formal structure for working with the Eminent Personalities to ensure effective coordination, avoid overlap, and align their efforts with broader national and continental peacebuilding agendas.

“We welcome the project proposal to strengthen IGAD’s Council of Eminent Persons as part of wider efforts to improve regional stability, peace and development,” Sing’Oei added.

He also affirmed Kenya’s readiness to support the deployment of the Eminent Personalities in key conflict zones, in line with IGAD’s Peace and Security Strategy and the African Union’s Silencing the Guns initiative.

Highlighting the importance of inclusion in peace processes, Sing’Oei stressed that a broad-based approach is essential.

Intergenerational dialogue

“The wisdom of Eminent Personalities should go hand-in-hand with intergenerational dialogue. We must ensure women, youth and underrepresented groups are part of the process. Peace that excludes large sections of society is not sustainable,” he added.

The PS also reminded participants that peace and security are essential foundations for regional development and integration.

“Without stability, IGAD’s goals on economic cooperation, infrastructure and climate resilience will remain out of reach,” he said.

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• Regional
• IGAD
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• Korir Sing’oei
• Intergovernmental Authority on Development
• peacebuilding
• IGAD Forum for Eminent Personalities and Leaders for Peace
• Horn of Africa conflicts
• Kenya calls for stronger role of IGAD eminent personalities in Horn of Africa peacebuilding
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In closing, Sing’Oei reiterated Kenya’s full support for IGAD’s peace and security initiatives and the expanded role of the Council of Eminent Personalities.

“Their wisdom, courage and integrity remain a beacon of hope for millions in the region yearning for peace,” he noted.

The Council of Eminent Personalities comprises members nominated by IGAD member states and offers guidance on key issues of concern across the region.

IGAD member countries include Djibouti, Ethiopia, Kenya, Somalia, South Sudan, and Sudan, with Uganda and Eritrea sending apologies.

The council elected (Rtd) Major John Ayabei Seii of Kenya as Chairperson and Ethiopian athletics icon Shaleqa Haile Gebresellasie as Vice Chairperson.

Working closely with IGAD and national stakeholders, the Eminent Persons will help identify African-led, practical solutions to the region’s most pressing peace and security challenges.

They will collaborate with a wide range of partners—including government institutions, non-governmental organisations, and private actors—to tackle issues affecting peace, stability, and socio-economic progress.

The Council will operate independently and impartially, guided by African values and committed to the highest standards of integrity in carrying out its mandate from IGAD, its member states, and the people of the region.