In a strategic move aimed at redefining stability pathways in the region, the Horn of Africa Policy Center (HAPC) successfully concluded the proceedings of the first edition of the “Horn Vision” conference in Samara, Ethiopia. Fully organized and supervised by HAPC, the event attracted an unprecedented turnout of over 800 participants, including political elites, traditional Sultans, community leaders, and civil society representatives.

While the agenda prioritized “Self-Determination for the Red Sea Afar” as a fundamental pillar for regional stability, the conference marked a pivotal shift in addressing cultural and legal heritage. Extensive discussions were held regarding “Afar Customary Laws,” moving beyond theoretical debate to actionable policy.

Key Outcomes & Achievements:

1. Internationalizing Legal Heritage (The UNESCO Initiative): The conference produced a landmark recommendation to document Afar Customary Laws and pursue their registration as UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage. In an immediate response to HAPC’s direction, the Afar Regional Government officially adopted this recommendation, committing to sponsor a specialized seminar and conference to prepare the dossier for international submission.

2. Unifying Political Vision: The event successfully established common ground among diverse Afar political factions, bridging historical gaps to crystallize a unified stance regarding their shared destiny and self-determination.

3. Legitimacy & Momentum: The extensive coverage and the active participation of traditional authorities (Sultans and Elders) granted the conference’s outcomes—and HAPC’s recommendations—powerful social and political legitimacy.

4. Consolidating HAPC’s Role: The success of Horn Vision 1st cemented HAPC’s status as a premier think tank and a unifying umbrella organization capable of managing large-scale regional events and steering them toward tangible, policy-driven results.