The head of the Security Sector Program at IGAD, Abebe Muluneh, stated in an interview with the “Ethiopian News Agency” that the Horn of Africa region is rich in natural resources. However, it faces significant challenges such as instability, the threat of terrorism, and climate change.
He added, “Collective actions must be taken to deter the terrorist threat by developing a sustainable solution to the conflict in the region.”
He continued, “Terrorist groups in Syria are looking for a void to exploit after their defeat. This void is now available in East Africa.”
He further explained, “For instance, there’s a risk in Sudan. If a solution to the problem in Sudan isn’t reached, it’s believed that terrorist groups will exploit this vacuum.”
He mentioned, “Both the Somali youth movement and the ISIS organization are active in the region. One reason for this is the weak government in Somalia, which has become a safe haven for these groups. Additionally, migration from Yemen to our region is increasing.”
In conclusion, he stated, “All of this underscores the fact that war deprives you of a peaceful life and casts you into fire and hell. Hence, everyone must work to avoid war.”
Previously, a senior official in the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) warned against Sudan turning into a refuge for “terrorists.” He urged member states to collaborate to find solutions to counter the dangers of terrorism and conflicts in the region, as reported by the “Arab World News Agency.”
