Djibouti City — The capital of Djibouti was abuzz on Wednesday as prominent Somali political figures arrived to commemorate a defining moment in Somalia’s modern history — the 25th anniversary of the Arta Peace Conference.
Among those who landed in Djibouti City were former Somali prime ministers, ex-speakers of the Federal Parliament, and a host of current and former lawmakers. Their arrival comes on the eve of a major event to be held in Arta, where President Ismaïl Omar Guelleh will preside over the official commemoration and the launch of a new initiative dubbed the Peace Momentum.
The initiative seeks to rekindle the spirit of reconciliation and national rebuilding that defined the 2000 Arta Conference — the landmark meeting that gave birth to Somalia’s Transitional National Government after nearly a decade of civil strife.
For many of the visiting Somali leaders, the anniversary carries deep personal and political significance. Some were delegates or facilitators at the original talks, while others represent a new generation of politicians striving to uphold the principles of unity and dialogue forged in Arta a quarter century ago.
President Guelleh, who played a pivotal role in brokering the 2000 peace talks, is expected to highlight Djibouti’s enduring commitment to regional peace and Somali reconciliation when the celebrations officially open in Arta on Thursday.
The event has drawn attention across the Horn of Africa, with diplomats, regional organizations, and international partners expected to join the commemorations. As Djibouti once again hosts Somali leaders under the banner of peace, the symbolic return to Arta offers both reflection and hope — a reminder that even amid turbulence, the path of dialogue remains Somalia’s most powerful tool for nation-building.