This archive report was first published on 17 September 2019.
Kenya's Foreign Affairs Cabinet Secretary, Monica Juma, has emphasized the country's preference for an out-of-court settlement in its maritime dispute with Somalia.
Speaking in Nairobi, Ms Juma noted that an out-of-court settlement is preferable due to its likelihood of generating a durable solution for both parties.
Kenya's stance comes as the International Court of Justice (ICJ) agreed to postpone public hearings on the maritime dispute case until November 4, 2019.
However, the African Union Peace and Security Council has asked the Chairperson of the African Union Commission, Moussa Faki Mahamat, to appoint a special envoy to facilitate direct talks between Mogadishu and Nairobi.
Ms Juma stated, "An out-of-court settlement is predicated on willingness by parties to engage. It is important to also encourage the other party so that they can be amenable."
She added, "Our preference is on this type of settlement, which is also, by the way, the preferred framework by UN, by AU and by IGAD because it has the greatest guarantee for ensuring a peaceful conclusion of the matter,"
The disputed area is approximately 100,000 square kilometers of water, said to contain hydrocarbons and fish resources.
While Nairobi opposes Somalia's bid to change the course of the boundary, it maintains that the resources in the area are not the primary reason for Kenya's contest.
