ABSTRACT
This chapter examines the relationship between Ethiopia and IGAD and the ramifications for peacebuilding in the sub-region. It discusses the complicated position of Ethiopia in the region. The author argues that Ethiopia’s joining the league of pro-US member countries in the Horn made the country a target of international terrorist groups and their sympathisers in the region. More importantly, Ethiopia’s stance in this regard could render its efforts in peacebuilding suspect in the eyes of detractors who could question Ethiopia’s involvement in peacebuilding efforts regardless of their merit. He assesses Ethiopia’s role in IGAD’s formation and revitalisation which are underpinned by the broadening of the organisation’s mandate to cover different areas of engagement, including peacebuilding and security. Further, the author highlights Ethiopia’s contribution to boost IGAD’s peacebuilding efforts within and between member countries. Ethiopia’s role in overcoming challenges militating against IGAD’s peacebuilding efforts resulting from the divergent interests of member states and the internal political dynamics within each is analysed.
