Background and Rationale

The IGAD region is a mosaic of resilience, innovation, and demographic strength. At its heart are two transformative forces, women and youth, who continue to shape the social, economic, and environmental narratives of the region. From leading grassroots climate action to driving entrepreneurial growth and influencing media spaces, their contributions are vital.

However, women and youth across the region face persistent systemic challenge, limited access to resources, underrepresentation in decision-making spaces, and social and economic marginalisation. These barriers hinder the full realisation of their potential and, in turn, constrain the development trajectory of the region.

Recognising this, the IGAD Communication Unit initiated a regional campaign in the first quarter of 2025 under the theme: “Their Impact, Our Future: Women and Youth at the Forefront of Solutions.”
This campaign seeks to amplify the voices of women and youth, highlight their achievements, and mobilise stakeholders towards building more inclusive policies and opportunities.

This initiative is also in line with IGAD’s ongoing commitment to the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, particularly SDG 5 (Gender Equality) and SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth), as well as continental aspirations under Agenda 2063.

Campaign Objectives

• Amplify Contributions:
  Increase public awareness and appreciation of the critical roles women and youth play in economic transformation, climate action, media innovation, and social development.
• Inspire and Inform:
  Provide a platform for storytelling, thought leadership, and knowledge-sharing through the voices of trailblazers and changemakers across the IGAD region.
• Policy Influence:
  Stimulate meaningful dialogue around policies and strategies that promote gender equality and youth empowerment, encouraging evidence-based, inclusive interventions.
• Stakeholder Engagement:
  Mobilise and connect stakeholders—including policymakers, development partners, private sector actors, media professionals, and community leaders—to support youth and women-led initiatives.

Target Audiences

• Women and youth across IGAD Member States
• Policymakers and national institutions
• Civil society and grassroots organizations
• Media professionals and influencers
• Regional and international development partners