NAIROBI, Kenya, Feb 27 – The European Union (EU) and the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) have formalized a €4 million (Sh 634 million) financing agreement aimed at bolstering regional development and peace initiatives.
The funds will support IGAD’s multifaceted endeavors in addressing pressing issues affecting the Horn of Africa region, including but not limited to natural disasters, humanitarian crises, and security challenges.
Mohamed Abdi Ware, Deputy Executive Secretary of IGAD, led the signing ceremony, held at the IGAD Headquarters in Djibouti, representing the Executive Secretary. Sylvie Tabesse, the EU Ambassador to Djibouti and IGAD, was also present.
Reflecting on the global geopolitical landscape, Ware emphasized the profound impact it has had on socio-economic conditions worldwide, with the Horn of Africa being particularly vulnerable.
He underscored the need for political, diplomatic, and technical interventions to mitigate these challenges effectively.
“The symbolic signing of the EU-Horizontal capacity building project today(Tuesday), which aims to strengthen IGAD’s institutional capacity to effectively implement its mandate is a living testimony of this purposeful relationship and readiness to work together in addressing the key challenges facing the Horn of Africa, ”Ware said during the event held at IGAD Headquarters in Djibouti.
The EU echoed this sentiment, highlighting the agreement as a testament to the shared dedication of both entities to fostering stability, security, and development within the region.
IGAD comprises eight Member States drawn from the Horn of Africa, Nile Valley, and the African Great Lakes region