Djibouti(Mogadishu24)-The former President of Hirshabelle state and the former Special Presidential Envoy on Stabilization and Civilian Protection, Mohamed Abdi Waare, has been appointed as the Deputy Secretary-General of the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD).

Daud Aweis, the Minister of Information, Culture, and Tourism of Somalia, described Ware’s appointment as a diplomatic victory for the Somali Government. He stated that this new position would enhance Somalia’s regional and international influence.

“In a significant win for Somalia, Mohamed Abdi Ware’s appointment as Deputy Executive Secretary General of IGAD elevates Somalia’s influence within the region and internationally, marking a key diplomatic achievement for the Federal Government,” Minister Daud said.

Former President of Somalia, Sharif Sheikh Ahmed, extended his congratulations to Mohamed Abdi Ware on his new appointment, urging him to represent Somalia in the best way possible.

“I congratulate the former President of Hirshabelle, Mr. Mohamed Abdi Ware, who was appointed as the Deputy Secretary-General of the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD). I hope that he will represent our nation to the best of his ability, acknowledging the importance of being part of the senior leadership of this organization,” Sheikh Sharif said.

Mr. Mohamed Abdi Ware expressed his gratitude upon accepting his new role, extending thanks to President Hassan Sheikh, the IGAD Secretariat, and President Ismail Omar Guelleh for entrusting him with the position.

“It is with humility I accept my appointment as the Deputy Executive Secretary of IGAD. I thank President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud for nominating me, the Heads of State & Government of Member States for approving my nomination and President Ismail Omar Guelleh, the chairman of IGAD Chairman for appointing me,” Mr. Ware said.

He is set to join the IGAD Secretariat, led by Dr. Workneh Gebeyehu, the Executive Secretary for the organization.

Mr. Ware affirmed his commitment to creating a positive impact in the areas of peace and security, climate mitigation, regional economic and social development, integration, as well as youth and women empowerment.

“I am excited to join a dynamic team of professionals under the leadership of Dr. Workneh. I look forward to leading a Programming Team that will strive to make a difference in the lives of our citizens in Peace and Security, Climate Mitigation, Regional.”

“Economic and Social Development & Integration, Youth and Women Empowerment to Improve incomes and Livelihoods. I look forward to engaging Technical Ministries of our Member States and our International Partners to make this a reality,” he added.

Before his current appointment, Mr. Ware served as the special envoy of President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud on Stabilization and Civilian Protection. He was replaced by Mr. Omar Ibrahim Hashi, who was appointed by the president two weeks ago.

Mr. Ware previously held the position of President of Hirshabelle State of Somalia from September 2017 to November 2020.