Andrew Wasike
07 October 2022•Update: 07 October 2022
NAIROBI, Kenya
Regional security was the main point of focus as Kenya’s president met the top American diplomat for the Horn of Africa on Friday.
Talks between President William Ruto and Mike Hammer, the US special envoy for the Horn of Africa, in the capital Nairobi were held in the backdrop of the Tigray conflict in neighboring Ethiopia.
Ruto said in a statement that the American diplomat reiterated the US’ commitment to efforts for peace and security, particularly in Ethiopia and the Democratic Republic of the Congo.
He also “thanked Kenya for its continued pivotal role in anchoring stability in the region,” the statement said.
Ruto emphasized the need for peace and stability for regional prosperity, while conveying Kenya’s appreciation for US efforts in the Horn of Africa, it added.
Hammer’s visit to Kenya comes amid renewed hope for peace talks between the Ethiopian government and the Tigray People’s Liberation Front (TPLF).
Both sides expressed willingness this week to take part in peace talks in South Africa that will be mediated by the African Union.
The Tigray conflict has killed thousands and displaced millions more since November 2020.
There has been intense fighting after a months-long truce was shattered in late August, with reports of mass casualties and other rights violations.
A report released by UN rights experts last month accused both sides of committing abuses that border on war crimes and crimes against humanity.
