24 February 2024
Addis Ababa, Ethiopia – Ethiopia and the United Kingdom have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) aimed at strengthening peace and stability in the volatile border region shared by Kenya, Somalia, and Ethiopia. This collaborative effort seeks to address the root causes of violent extremism and bolster the resilience of communities within the area.
The MoU, signed this morning at the Ethiopian Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MoFA), was inked by Ambassador Jemaludin, Deputy Director General of the Africa Department, and British Ambassador to Ethiopia Darren Welch.
“This agreement marks a significant step forward in our joint efforts to promote peace and security in the region,” stated MoFA in a press release. “The MoU focuses on boosting the resilience of communities across the Ethiopia-Kenya-Somalia borders to the factors that fuel violent extremism.”
Both parties reaffirmed their commitment to tackling the ongoing threat posed by the militant group Al-Shabaab, which operates primarily in Somalia but has also carried out attacks in neighboring countries.
The MoU focuses on enhancing resilience of border communities against violent extremism, joint intelligence sharing, counter-terrorism initiatives, and capacity building for local security forces, addressing poverty, inequality, and lack of opportunities that contribute to radicalization, and empowering local communities to be active participants in peacebuilding and conflict resolution.
This MoU signifies a renewed commitment by Ethiopia and the UK to collaborate on regional security challenges. By addressing the underlying causes of instability and fostering community-driven solutions, the agreement aims to create a more peaceful and prosperous future for the tri-border region
