The United Nations, the African Union Mission in Somalia (AMISOM), the European Union (EU), the Inter-Governmental Authority on Development (IGAD), the United States of America, the United Kingdom, Sweden and Italy welcomed  the comprehensive agreement on peace and reconciliation among the peoples of Jubbaland that was announced in a ceremony held in Kismaayo on 25 March.

The agreement ended talks between Jubbaland leaders and Marehan stakeholders. The accord addresses a number of power-sharing issues and strengthens the Jubba state building process. It paves the way for an inclusive administration that represents the entirety of Jubbaland’s communities

“This historic agreement is the outcome of an intra-Somali process that will bolster unity in the fight against al-Shabaab extremists in Jubbaland,” said the Special Representative of the UN Secretary-General for Somalia, Michael Keating. “We commend President Madobe for his courage and resolve in pursuing this important agreement.” 

International partners also commended and congratulated the Federal Government and the people of Jubbaland for their strong commitment to peace and reconciliation, which should serve as an example for the rest of Somalia in settling long-standing disputes between different communities and administrations. This is a foundation for the sustainability and success of governing structures throughout the country. 

They also thanked IGAD for working closely with both sides during the reconciliation talks.

International partners stand ready to build upon this success by supporting reconciliation processes elsewhere in Somalia. They also urged all parties to the freshly concluded Jubbaland agreement to honor their commitments in the interests of peace, security and development.