The Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) held its 6th annual steering committee meeting for the Regional Migration Fund (RMF) in Djibouti on November 10. The two-day gathering brought together representatives from IGAD member states and their partners to evaluate the fund's achievements, challenges, and strategic directions for its next phase. Djibouti, currently holding the IGAD presidency, emphasized the fund's significance in addressing regional migration challenges.
Ambassador Guelleh Idriss Omar, Director of International Organizations at Djibouti's Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, presided over the opening ceremony. He highlighted the fund's crucial role in responding to migration challenges and praised IGAD's efforts, as well as the partnership with the German government through the Federal Ministry of Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ) and the German Development Bank (KfW).
The RMF, launched in 2019, focuses on improving the socio-economic conditions of migrants, refugees, and host communities by developing essential infrastructure, enhancing livelihoods, and building resilience. Since its inception, the fund has made notable investments in Ali-Sabieh and Ali-Addeh. However, Ambassador Omar stressed the need for sustained durability, strengthened national and local appropriation, and continuous effectiveness in interventions.
The meeting's agenda includes examining operational constraints, financial reports, and audit responsibilities of member states. Participants aim to draw lessons from field experiences, formulate concrete recommendations for the fund's next phase, and enhance coordination among stakeholders. This platform for consultation seeks to consolidate gains and promote sustainable solutions for socio-economic development in border areas.
The IGAD Regional Migration Fund addresses the complex migration dynamics in the Horn of Africa, where regional cooperation is deemed essential. By reaffirming their commitment to the fund, IGAD and its partners aim to support the development of border areas, enhance community resilience, and foster durable solutions for migrants and host communities.
Key discussions during the meeting centered on ensuring the long-term sustainability of projects, improving the effectiveness of interventions, and exploring new strategic directions. The involvement of various stakeholders, including member states, international partners, and local communities, is seen as vital to achieving the fund's objectives and maximizing its impact.
The outcome of the meeting is expected to shape the future of the Regional Migration Fund, guiding its operations and enhancing its contribution to addressing migration-related challenges in the IGAD region. The fund's success is critical in promoting regional cooperation, supporting socio-economic development, and improving the lives of migrants and host communities.
Key points
- The IGAD Regional Migration Fund focuses on improving socio-economic conditions for migrants, refugees, and host communities through infrastructure development and livelihood enhancement.
