𝗖𝗼𝗼𝗿𝗱𝗶𝗻𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗪𝗼𝗿𝗸𝘀𝗵𝗼𝗽 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗣𝗿𝗼𝗷𝗲𝗰𝘁:
𝗘𝗨 𝗦𝘂𝗽𝗽𝗼𝗿𝘁 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝗙𝗮𝗰𝗶𝗹𝗶𝘁𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗥𝗲𝗴𝗶𝗼𝗻𝗮𝗹 𝗦𝘁𝗮𝗯𝗶𝗹𝗶𝘇𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗶𝗻 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗛𝗼𝗿𝗻 𝗼𝗳 𝗔𝗳𝗿𝗶𝗰𝗮 📍 Bishoftu, Ethiopia | 11–13 June 2026 The First Internal Coordination Workshop for the EU-funded project, EU Support for Facilitating Regional Stabilisation in the Horn of Africa, has successfully concluded in Bishoftu, Ethiopia. Opened and closed by Hon. @SirajFegessa the three-day workshop brought together representatives from the Offices of the Special Envoys to Sudan and South Sudan, @IGAD_CEWARN , @IGADISSP, IGAD Red Sea and Maritime Affairs, @IGADpeace, to strengthen coordination and collaboration for effective project implementation. Over the course of the workshop, the team reviewed project objectives and implementation modalities, refined unit concept notes, developed a coordinated one-year action plan, aligned priorities and activities, and agreed on reporting, communication, and coordination mechanisms to support coherent and impactful delivery of the project. The workshop successfully achieved its objectives, including enhancing participants' understanding of the project, clarifying roles and responsibilities, strengthening collaboration among implementing units, and establishing a common roadmap for advancing peace, security, preventive diplomacy, and regional stabilisation across the Horn of Africa. #EU4HornStability #IGADPeace

In a time of growing global uncertainty, sustained partnership and dialogue remain indispensable. Today, at the IGAD Office in Addis Ababa, I co convened the IGAD–Sweden Annual Partnership Meeting with H.E. Magnus Lennartsson, Ambassador of Sweden to Ethiopia, Djibouti, and IGAD. Our discussions focused on strengthening cooperation in support of peace, resilience, regional integration, and sustainable development across the IGAD region. I thank the government and people of Sweden for the continued partnership and shared commitment to advancing regional solutions to regional challenges.

🇸🇸 IGAD @ 40 — Tourism Spotlight: South Sudan. From the vast Sudd Wetland—one of the world’s largest wetlands—to its rich cultural heritage, diverse wildlife, and vibrant communities, South Sudan holds immense tourism potential that can contribute to sustainable development and economic growth. As interest in nature-based and cultural tourism continues to grow, South Sudan's unique landscapes, wildlife, and cultural traditions offer opportunities to generate income, support local communities, and showcase the country's rich heritage to regional and international visitors. Through the #IGAD Sustainable #Tourism Master Plan 2024–2034, IGAD is supporting Member States to unlock the full potential of tourism by promoting sustainable destination development, regional cooperation, and tourism investment across the region. 📘 Discover how sustainable tourism is shaping long-term prosperity across the region: igad.int/download/igad-susta… Celebrating 40 years of regional cooperation—advancing tourism for growth, integration, and shared prosperity. Visit. Experience. Discover South Sudan. #RisingWithIGAD #OneRegionOneFuture

The Preliminary Statement of the #IGAD Election Observation Mission (#IGADEOM) to the 1 June 2026 General Elections in the Federal Democratic Republic of #Ethiopia is now available. Read the full statement here: igad.int/igad-election-obser…

𝗜𝗚𝗔𝗗 𝗘𝗹𝗲𝗰𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗢𝗯𝘀𝗲𝗿𝘃𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗠𝗶𝘀𝘀𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝘁𝗼 𝗘𝘁𝗵𝗶𝗼𝗽𝗶𝗮 𝟮𝟬𝟮𝟲 📍 Addis Ababa, Ethiopia | 2 June 2026 Following their deployment across Ethiopia to observe the 7th General Election, members of the #IGAD EOM reconvened in Addis Ababa today to brief the Head of Mission, H.E. Dr. Speciosa Wandira-Kazibwe (@SpeciosaW), on their observations and findings from the field. Drawing on firsthand observations from polling stations and engagements with electoral stakeholders, the observers shared insights on the conduct of voting, voter participation, inclusivity, and the overall electoral environment across their respective areas of deployment. These field-based observations form a critical component of the Mission’s independent assessment and will contribute to its Preliminary Statement, to be issued jointly with the African Union Election Observation Mission. #IGADEOM #EthiopiaDecides2026

IGAD Election Observation Mission to the Federal Republic of Ethiopia 2026 📍 Addis Ababa, Ethiopia | 2nd June, 2026 The Head of the #IGAD Election Observation Mission (IGAD EOM), H.E. Dr. Speciosa Wandira-Kazibwe (@SpeciosaW) and the Head of the African Union Election Observation Mission, H.E. Uhuru Kenyatta (@4thPresidentKE), convened a post-election debriefing meeting one day after the conclusion of polling in the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia. The consultations provided an opportunity for the Heads of Mission to review and consolidate observations gathered by their respective teams during election day and the immediate post-election period, as part of their ongoing assessment of the electoral process. Both Missions are expected to present their preliminary findings on Wednesday, 3rd June, 2026.

IGAD Election Observation Mission Head Dr. Speciosa Wandira-Kazibwe visited Bole Constituency 17 this morning to observe voting in Ethiopia’s 7th General Election, reaffirming the mission’s commitment to a transparent and credible electoral process.

𝗜𝗚𝗔𝗗 𝗘𝗹𝗲𝗰𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗢𝗯𝘀𝗲𝗿𝘃𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗠𝗶𝘀𝘀𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝘁𝗼 𝗘𝘁𝗵𝗶𝗼𝗽𝗶𝗮 𝟮𝟬𝟮𝟲 📍 Addis Ababa, Ethiopia | 1 June 2026 The Heads of the IGAD and African Union Election Observation Missions to #Ethiopia, H.E. Dr. Speciosa Wandira Kazi we (@SpeciosaW) and H.E. Uhuru Kenyatta (@4thPresidentKE), convened for their pre-election briefing to exchange initial observations and assess the conduct of Ethiopia’s 7th General Election. The Heads of Mission will reconvene on Tuesday, to review and consolidate findings from their respective observer teams ahead of the issuance of their preliminary statements on Wednesday, 3rd June 2026. #IGADEOM #EthiopiaDecides2026

𝗜𝗚𝗔𝗗 𝗘𝗹𝗲𝗰𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗢𝗯𝘀𝗲𝗿𝘃𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗠𝗶𝘀𝘀𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝘁𝗼 𝗘𝘁𝗵𝗶𝗼𝗽𝗶𝗮 𝟮𝟬𝟮𝟲 📍 Addis Ababa, Ethiopia | 1 June 2026 IGAD’s Election Observation Mission to Ethiopia met with the Ambassadors of Denmark and the United States to exchange perspectives on the ongoing electoral process and the broader political environment. The discussions focused primarily on voter turnout and the overall conduct of polling. The EOM also shared updates on the strategic deployment of its observers across the country, which continues to be guided by security assessments and logistical planning. The #IGAD Mission, jointly with the African Union, will present their preliminary findings during a press conference on 3 June 2026. A comprehensive final report will be formally submitted following the official announcement of the election results. #IGADEOM #EthiopiaDecides2026

𝗜𝗚𝗔𝗗 𝗘𝗹𝗲𝗰𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗢𝗯𝘀𝗲𝗿𝘃𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗠𝗶𝘀𝘀𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝘁𝗼 𝗘𝘁𝗵𝗶𝗼𝗽𝗶𝗮 𝟮𝟬𝟮𝟲 📍 Addis Ababa, Ethiopia | 1 June 2026 Throughout polling day, Dr. Speciosa Wandira-Kazibwe (@SpeciosaW) , Head of the #IGAD Election Observation Mission, toured and observed polling stations across Addis Ababa to assess the conduct of voting and the general election environment. #IGADEOM #EthiopiaDecides2026

IGAD Election Observation Mission to Ethiopia 2026 📍 Addis Ababa, Ethiopia | 1 June 2026 At the commencement of voting across Ethiopia, #IGAD observers noted that designated polling stations opened according to schedule, with voter queues forming prior to the official opening times. IGAD records that priority access was systematically granted to elderly citizens, expectant mothers, persons with disabilities, and mothers with young children, in line with stated protocols for electoral accessibility. At select locations, local cultural elements were present; for instance, one polling station provided traditional coffee to waiting voters and observers during the morning hours. The Mission's ongoing observation focuses on monitoring voting procedures, turnout rates, logistical accessibility, and the general administration of the electoral process across monitored regions. 📸 Courtesy of IGAD Observers #IGADEOM #EthiopiaDecides2026

IGAD Election Observation Mission to Ethiopia 2026 📍 Across Ethiopia | 1 June 2026 #IGAD Election Observers deployed across Ethiopia are currently monitoring polling day activities within their designated areas. The scope of observation includes the opening of stations, voting procedures, turnout, the implementation of accessibility measures, and the general environment surrounding the polling centers. In line with standard regional and international observation frameworks, observers are interacting with election officials, party agents, security personnel, and independent observers to collect data on the conduct of the process. The data and findings gathered today will be compiled to inform the Mission's upcoming preliminary statement on Ethiopia's 2026 General Election that will be released on 3rd June, 2026. #IGADEOM #EthiopiaDecides2026 📸 courtesy of IGAD Observers

𝗜𝗚𝗔𝗗 𝗘𝗹𝗲𝗰𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗢𝗯𝘀𝗲𝗿𝘃𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗠𝗶𝘀𝘀𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝘁𝗼 𝗘𝘁𝗵𝗶𝗼𝗽𝗶𝗮 𝟮𝟬𝟮𝟲 📍 Addis Ababa, Ethiopia | 1 June 2026 As polling gets underway across Ethiopia, Dr. Speciosa Wandira Kazibwe (@SpeciosaW), Head of the #IGAD Election Observation Mission,  is visiting polling stations in Addis Ababa to observe the opening of polls and assess the conduct of the electoral process. Her first stop was Shala Park Polling Station No. 1, located in Constituency 17, Woreda 3, where she observed the opening procedures and the commencement of voting. Throughout the day, the IGAD EOM will continue monitoring voting procedures, voter participation, accessibility, and the overall electoral environment across Ethiopia, as part of its mandate to contribute to credible, peaceful, transparent, and inclusive elections. #IGADEOM #EthiopiaDecides2026

𝗜𝗚𝗔𝗗 𝗘𝗹𝗲𝗰𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗢𝗯𝘀𝗲𝗿𝘃𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗠𝗶𝘀𝘀𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝘁𝗼 𝗘𝘁𝗵𝗶𝗼𝗽𝗶𝗮 𝟮𝟬𝟮𝟲 📍 Addis Ababa, Ethiopia | 31 May 2026 With just hours to go before the 1st June, 2026 General Election in Ethiopia, the IGAD Election Observation Mission is actively engaged on the ground. Teams of field observers are currently deployed across their assigned districts, meeting with local officials, civil society actors, and key stakeholders. By evaluating pre-election preparedness, inclusivity, and the overall voting environment at the grassroots level, these observers are gathering the vital, real-time insights that will form the foundation of the Mission's comprehensive post-election analysis. #IGADEOM #EthiopiaDecides2026

IGAD Steps Up Election Observation Across Ethiopia The Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) Election Observation Mission has deployed field observers across Ethiopia as the country prepares to hold its 7th General Election on June 1. The mission said teams are operating in assigned districts nationwide, meeting local officials, civil society representatives and other stakeholders to assess electoral preparedness, inclusivity and the overall voting environment ahead of polling day. Led by Speciosa Wandira-Kazibwe (@SpeciosaW), the mission is gathering real-time information from communities across the country to evaluate conditions on the ground before voting begins. The findings will contribute to IGAD’s post-election assessment of the polls, which are being closely watched as Ethiopia conducts its first nationwide election since the formal end of the Tigray conflict.

𝗜𝗚𝗔𝗗 𝗘𝗹𝗲𝗰𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗢𝗯𝘀𝗲𝗿𝘃𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗠𝗶𝘀𝘀𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝘁𝗼 𝗘𝘁𝗵𝗶𝗼𝗽𝗶𝗮 𝟮𝟬𝟮𝟲 📍 Addis Ababa, Ethiopia | 30 May 2026 The #IGAD Election Observation Mission (EOM) to Ethiopia concluded its two-day orientation programme for observers ahead of the 7th General Election. The final day focused on election day observation checklists, logistics, security arrangements, and operational preparedness to ensure a coordinated and effective observation process. During the closing remarks, H.E. Dr. Speciosa Wandira-Kazibwe, Head of the IGAD EOM, and her Deputy H.E. Mohamed Ali Houmed, underscored the importance of professionalism, impartiality, and adherence to international principles of election observation. Following the orientation, observers were officially deployed and have commenced travel to their respective regions across Ethiopia, where they will observe the electoral process and engage with key stakeholders in the lead-up to polling day. #IGADEOM2026 #EthiopiaDecides2026

IGAD Deploys 26 Observers for Ethiopia’s Seventh General Election ena.et/web/eng/w/eng_8941860