Rwanda Joins AU, EAC in Backing Somalia’s Territorial Integrity

GOOBJOOG NEWS | KIGALI: Rwanda has reaffirmed its support for Somalia’s unity and territorial integrity, aligning with positions taken by the African Union and the East African Community amid controversy over reports that Israel may recognise a region in Somalia as an independent state.

In a statement, Rwanda’s foreign ministry said it fully supported AU and EAC statements backing Somalia, and called for a peaceful approach based on respect for international law and shared regional prosperity.

Rwanda’s stance adds to a growing list of African and international actors rejecting any move seen as undermining Somalia’s sovereignty. The African Union, European Union, Arab League and regional blocs including IGAD and the EAC have all criticised the reported Israeli position, describing it as a violation of Somalia’s territorial integrity.

Somalia’s federal government has repeatedly said all regions of the country are inseparable parts of the Somali state, warning that unilateral recognition risks fuelling instability in the Horn of Africa. Public anger has also surfaced domestically, with protests recently held in Mogadishu.

Rwanda said respect for sovereignty and multilateral consensus remains central to regional stability, echoing the AU’s long-standing position on Somalia’s borders. Analysts say the coordinated response reflects wider concern that external actions could further destabilise an already fragile region.