This archive report was first published on 15 September 2019.
Kenya is pushing for an out-of-court settlement in the maritime dispute with Somalia, despite the ongoing court case at the International Court of Justice (ICJ).
Foreign Affairs Cabinet Secretary Monica Juma stated that an out-of-court settlement is preferable due to its potential to generate a durable solution for both parties.
On September 15, 2019, the ICJ agreed to postpone public hearings until November 4, 2019, after Kenya requested time to recruit a new legal defence team.
Kenya's preference for an out-of-court settlement aligns with the African Union's suggestion for direct talks with Somalia, aimed at preventing the dispute from escalating into a larger conflict.
Ms Juma emphasized that an out-of-court settlement relies on the willingness of both parties to engage in negotiations, adding that the United Nations, the African Union, and the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) also support this approach.
The disputed area spans approximately 100,000 square kilometers of water, believed to contain hydrocarbons and fish resources.
Kenya opposes Somalia's bid to alter the boundary, but asserts that the resources in the area are secondary to the issue of territorial integrity.
Ms Juma stated, 'This matter is larger than simply the fishes and hydrocarbons.'
