By HAN News Desk
ARTA — The Chairperson of the African Union Commission, Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, on Thursday joined Djibouti’s President Ismaïl Omar Guelleh, Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, and other regional leaders to commemorate the 25th anniversary of the historic Arta Peace Conference — a milestone that laid the foundation for Somalia’s post-war reconciliation and political transition.
In his remarks, Youssouf hailed the occasion as “a vital tribute to the memory of a nation,” emphasizing that it honored not only the achievements of the peace process but also “the sacrifices, courage, and collective wisdom that made progress possible.”
“The Arta Conference marked the rebirth of dialogue after years of fragmentation and despair,” the AU Chairperson said. “Remembering Arta allows Somalis — and indeed all Africans — to draw lessons on the power of national ownership, community dialogue, and inclusive politics in rebuilding nations.”
The 2000 Arta Peace Conference, hosted by Djibouti, brought together Somali clan elders, civil society leaders, and political figures after nearly a decade of civil war. The conference produced the first Transitional National Government (TNG) of Somalia, marking a turning point in efforts toward peace, governance, and regional stability in the Horn of Africa.
