The Challenges of International Powers Competition in the Horn of Africa: The IGAD Experience

Abstract

Geopolitical, economic, and security interests have recently prompted multiple international powers' involvement in the Horn of Africa. Although the region currently hosts a significant number of international powers, the challenges and impacts these powers pose to the region’s peace and security and the Inter-Governmental Authority on Development's (IGAD) peace and security activities have received little attention in academic literature. Thus, the purpose of this article is to explore the challenges and impacts that international powers pose to the region's peace and security and the IGAD's efforts to promote it. The neorealist theory of international relations is utilized as a theoretical framework. The research method is qualitative. Primary and secondary data sources were employed. The findings indicate that the increasing involvement of international powers, driven by geopolitical and security concerns, has led to instability and conflict in the Horn of Africa. The presence of these powers challenges the IGAD's policy formulation, agenda-setting, implementation, decision-making, and financial autonomy, thereby affecting its performance in achieving its mandates.