IGAD Strengthens Coordination Among Special Envoys to Advance Sudan Peace Process
March 18, 2025 (Addis Ababa, Ethiopia)
The Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) has reinforced its commitment to a coordinated and inclusive peace process for Sudan by convening the Forum of Special Envoys and Representatives on Harmonising Mediation Efforts for the Sudan Peace Process in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.
The high-level meeting, led by IGAD Executive Secretary H.E. Dr Workneh Gebeyehu, brought together regional and international Special Envoys, partner representatives, and key stakeholders to align mediation efforts and strengthen cooperation towards a Sudanese-owned and Sudanese-led resolution to the ongoing conflict.
Recognising the complexity of Sudan’s conflict, IGAD emphasised the importance of a unified and well-coordinated mediation approach. The forum established a structured framework for collaboration among Special Envoys and set out concrete steps to support the Sudanese people in achieving a lasting and sustainable peace.
“Our role as mediators is to facilitate a process that ensures the voices of Sudanese people are heard and their aspirations for peace are realised. This forum is a critical step towards streamlining efforts, avoiding duplication, and ensuring a collective impact,” said H.E. Dr Workneh Gebeyehu.
The discussions focused on five key priorities, including strengthening coordination among all Special Envoys, developing a roadmap for implementing the Jeddah Declaration, enhancing engagement with Sudan’s civil society, aligning efforts on accountability, and boosting humanitarian diplomacy to support vulnerable populations affected by the conflict.
The meeting underscored that achieving peace in Sudan requires sustained engagement and a realistic, long-term mediation strategy. Special Envoys and representatives reaffirmed their commitment to working closely with IGAD and Sudanese stakeholders to maintain dialogue, foster trust, and ensure a credible peace process.
IGAD will continue to work tirelessly to facilitate diplomatic solutions that uphold the sovereignty and aspirations of the Sudanese people. The organisation remains steadfast in supporting Sudan until a peaceful, inclusive, and lasting resolution is achieved.
As the forum progresses, IGAD and its partners will further refine their collaborative approach and engagement strategy to drive meaningful progress. The outcomes of this meeting will shape ongoing mediation efforts and contribute to a more coordinated international response to the crisis in Sudan.