Guelleh Sworn In for New Term Amid Intense Diplomatic Activity

DJIBOUTI, May 9, 2026 - President Ismaïl Omar Guelleh was officially sworn in for a new five-year term on Saturday following his re-election in the April 10 presidential election, where he secured more than 97% of the vote. The inauguration ceremony gathered several African leaders, foreign delegations, and representatives of partner nations in Djibouti City.

In his inaugural address, President Guelleh pledged to continue economic and social reforms aimed at modernizing the country while preserving national stability. He stressed the importance of education, healthcare, youth employment, women’s empowerment, and technological innovation as central pillars of Djibouti’s future development.

“Education is the key to our future,” the president said, while also emphasizing the need to adapt the country’s education system to labor market demands and strengthen opportunities for young people.

The Djiboutian leader further announced plans to expand investments in digital technology and artificial intelligence, while calling for balanced regulation to preserve social cohesion and national values.

On regional and international affairs, President Guelleh reaffirmed Djibouti’s commitment to peace, cooperation, and African integration, stating that climate, health, and economic challenges require collective responses from African nations.

Following the inauguration ceremony, President Guelleh held a series of bilateral meetings with regional leaders and foreign representatives. He participated in a trilateral discussion alongside Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed and Sudanese Sovereign Council Vice-President Malik Agar, where talks focused on peace, security, and economic integration in the Horn of Africa.

Separate meetings were also held with South Sudanese President Salva Kiir and Yemeni Presidential Council President Rashad al-Alimi to discuss bilateral cooperation and regional stability.

Additional diplomatic talks brought together President Guelleh with Egyptian Prime Minister Mostafa Madbouly, Algerian Senate Speaker Nasri Azzouz, French Minister Catherine Vautrin, China’s Special Envoy Luosung Jiangeu, and United Nations Special Envoy for the Horn of Africa Guang Cong.