Workneh: Mediation in African Conflicts is a Responsibility That Must Move from Theory to Practice
The Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) opened its first “Reflections on Mediation” conference today, Tuesday, in the Kenyan capital, Nairobi. The conference, attended by IGAD Executive Secretary Dr. Workneh Gebeyehu, Kenyan Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Musalia Mudavadi, and a number of partners, will discuss the future of mediation in a rapidly changing global system.
The conference is being held under the theme “Reimagining Mediation in a Fragmented World.” IGAD emphasized that the challenge facing multilateral African leadership comes at a time when conflicts are escalating due to geopolitical tensions, fragmented power structures, and declining trust.
Workneh Gebeyehu emphasized that for the African Union, mediation is not merely an option, but a fundamental political responsibility and a test of the credibility of multilateralism. He called for unified mediation efforts, grounded in political principles, strategically coherent, and centered on those affected by conflict.
He added that the future of mediation will not be shaped by theory, but by practice rooted in the realities of those affected by conflict. He stressed the urgent need to move from statements to concrete principles, practical tools, and coordinated action.
The conference noted that rapid shifts in global politics and increasing pressures on multilateral systems are impacting the effectiveness and predictability of mediation efforts, requiring Africa to adapt by adopting more flexible and context-responsive approaches to peacebuilding and conflict resolution.
Participants also emphasized the need for regional cooperation, political transition, and humanitarian diplomacy to remain essential elements of African-led solutions, thereby strengthening dialogue and shared responsibility.
The conference affirmed the importance of international partnerships, while stressing that external support should complement, not dictate, peace processes in Africa.