WASHINGTON (SD) – US Secretary of State Antony Blinken has officially announced the US Special Envoy to the Horn of Africa, Mike Hammer, who will replace former Secretary of State appointee David Satterfield, who resigned in April.

“As Ambassador David Satterfield prepares to step down from the role, I am announcing that Ambassador Mike Hammer will succeed him as U.S. Special Envoy for the Horn of Africa.  I am grateful to Ambassador Satterfield for the experience and determination he brought to the role, and I look forward to the energy and vision that Ambassador Hammer will now lend to our efforts in the Horn of Africa.” the State Department said.

Blinken said the appointment of Ambassador Hammer underscored the United States’ commitment to regional diplomatic efforts, vowing that the United States would immediately support an inclusive political process towards peace, security, and prosperity for all Ethiopians.

“His appointment underscores our abiding commitment to diplomatic efforts in the region, most urgently in support of an inclusive political process towards peace, common security, and prosperity for all people in Ethiopia.  This Administration remains firmly focused on a cessation of hostilities, unhindered humanitarian access, transparent investigations into violations and human rights abuses by all actors, and a negotiated resolution to the conflict.” added the US State Department.

The appointment of the US envoy to the Horn of Africa comes at a time when Somalia has recently been elected a new president.