U.S. Special Envoy for the Horn of Africa, Ambassador Mike Hammer, is set to embark on a diplomatic mission to Djibouti and Ethiopia, focusing on regional security and the ongoing peace process in northern Ethiopia.
During his visit to Djibouti, Ambassador Hammer will engage in high-level consultations with the Djiboutian government and representatives from the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD). These discussions aim to address pressing regional and security issues, underscoring the United States’ commitment to stability in the Horn of Africa.
In Ethiopia, Ambassador Hammer’s agenda includes attending the African Union’s second meeting to review the implementation of the Pretoria Cessation of Hostilities Agreement (COHA) concerning northern Ethiopia. The United States continues to support the Ethiopian government and the Tigray Interim Regional Administration in their pursuit of lasting peace. Key focus areas include an effective disarmament, demobilization, and reintegration program for ex-combatants, the orderly and peaceful return of internally displaced persons, and advancing transitional justice and accountability measures.
Additionally, Ambassador Hammer will engage with Ethiopian officials to discuss efforts to end the ongoing violence in the Amhara and Oromia regions, emphasizing the importance of dialogue and reconciliation in achieving sustainable peace.