The African Executive, the flagship magazine of the Inter Region Economic Network (IREN), expresses its profound sorrow at the death of former German President Horst Köhler, a cherished friend and supporter of IREN Kenya. His passing represents a significant loss, not only for Germany and the international community, but also for Africa and those dedicated to its progress.

President Köhler was a passionate and unwavering champion of Africa's significance on the world stage. He firmly believed that the continent possessed the potential to play a pivotal role in addressing global challenges, and he consistently advocated for its inclusion in international dialogues and decision-making processes. Crucially, he emphasized the importance of ethical and open governance as the cornerstone for tackling the complex and ever-increasing issues confronting both Africa and the world at large. He saw transparent leadership as essential for fostering stability, economic growth, and sustainable development.

President Köhler's distinguished career was marked by impactful leadership across a diverse range of national and international roles. He served with distinction as the Federal President of Germany from 2004 to 2010, during which time he consistently promoted responsible global citizenship and sustainable economic policies. Prior to his presidency, he held prominent positions as Managing Director of the International Monetary Fund (IMF), where he oversaw significant reforms and advocated for financial stability. His commitment to fostering economic development extended to his role as President of the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD), where he focused on supporting the transition economies of Central and Eastern Europe. Furthermore, his dedication to conflict resolution led him to serve as the UN Secretary-General's Envoy to Western Sahara, working towards a peaceful and sustainable resolution to the long-standing dispute.

The entire team at The African Executive and IREN Kenya deeply mourns the loss of President Köhler. We will profoundly miss his wisdom, his invaluable counsel, and the insightful perspectives he always brought to our discussions. His commitment to Africa and his dedication to ethical leadership will continue to inspire our work, and his legacy will serve as a guiding light as we strive to contribute to a more prosperous and equitable future for the continent. He leaves behind a remarkable legacy of public service and a lasting impact on the global community.