The Independent Research Institute of the Horn of Africa (IRICA) recently celebrated its 10th anniversary, marking a decade of scientific research dedicated to national and regional realities. This milestone is significant as the institute obtained its status as a public utility Non-Governmental Organization (NGO), opening new perspectives for IRICA to strengthen its contribution to Djibouti's development. The institute focuses on producing relevant research that informs public policies and addresses the country's challenges.
IRICA's work encompasses various fields, including environmental sciences, culture, and economy. The institute engages in capacity building for both central administrations and civil society organizations. For instance, since 2022, IRICA has been implementing the Program to Support Civil Society (PASOC) in two phases, funded by the European Union. This program aims to enhance the capacities of civil society organizations of all sizes, helping them to better structure their initiatives and develop their competencies.
Dr. Abdillahi Houssein Abdallah, an environmental scientist and researcher at the University of Djibouti, highlighted IRICA's efforts in producing concrete results on the ground. He mentioned the institute's collaboration with various associations and administrations, such as the creation of a national forum for civil society organizations. This forum, established with the NGO Pait and Lait, brings together civil society organizations, enhances their coordination, and enables them to speak with one voice.
Amina Nouh Houmed, Doctor in Sciences and Oral Culture and Vice-President of IRICA since 2023, emphasized the institute's ambition to make research more visible and accessible. She invited the population to participate in upcoming discussions on important themes, aiming to share ideas, express concerns, and understand citizens' expectations. By doing so, IRICA seeks to bridge the gap between researchers and the general public, demonstrating the practical impacts of research on society.
Hawa Ahmed Youssouf, former minister and special representative of the African Union, praised IRICA's work and encouraged the institute to continue its efforts. She stressed the importance of providing researchers with the necessary financial means to advance their projects, suggesting that exploring alternative funding sources, such as the private sector and public institutions, could be beneficial.
Dr. Amina Saïd Chireh, former President of IRICA, expressed her satisfaction with the progress made by the institute over the past decade. She highlighted the promising perspectives opened by IRICA's new status and looked forward to the implementation of future research projects. The institute's ability to adapt and evolve is seen as crucial in addressing Djibouti's development challenges.
The celebration of IRICA's 10th anniversary was marked by various events, including discussions and exchanges on themes relevant to Djibouti's society. The institute's recognition as a public utility NGO is expected to enhance its visibility and credibility, enabling it to play a more significant role in shaping the country's development policies and strategies.
Key points
- IRICA obtains public utility NGO status, enhancing its contribution to Djibouti's development.
- The institute focuses on research, capacity building, and producing concrete results on the ground.
- IRICA aims to make research more visible, accessible, and relevant to addressing Djibouti's challenges.
