Nairobi, Kenya – The Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) mediators this afternoon concluded a five-day retreat supported by The African Centre for the Constructive Resolution of Disputes (ACCORD) and UNDP in Nairobi, Kenya.
The mediators shared country specific case studies and personal experiences on mediation, best practices and lessons learned. The experiences shared covered inclusivity of political actors, women, youth, religious and traditional leaders for successful dialogue and peace mediation.
Among the recommendations for future mediations; set time frames for interventions and preventive diplomacy; to seek sustainable agreements owned by the parties that would be implemented smoothly; sensitize the public on mediation process using existing channels of communication.
IGAD was called upon to strengthen its financial and structural capabilities through the establishment of a Mediation Fund by mobilizing funds from Its Member States, development partners and partner organizations.
IGAD was requested to exploit the existing technical expertize and knowledge through documentation and information sharing; enhance gender responsive mediation and inclusivity as well as engage women, youth and civil society in strengthening mediation processes in the region.
The private sector and business community role, interest in peace and stability was also highlighted where their contribution to mediation, peace and protection of human rights, good governance and democracy will encourage their investment in IGAD’s regional efforts.
Other recommendations were to strengthen IGAD Mediation Support Unit, create knowledge management mechanism to document mediation processes of the region.
In his closing remarks, Amb. Tewolde Gebremeskel, IGAD Director Peace and Security Division on behalf of Amb (Eng.) Mahboub M. Maalim, the Executive Secretary of IGAD appreciated invaluable contributions and recommendations that will ably be considered.
He also appreciated IGAD’s partnership with ACCORD, UNDP and UN DPA and their support to MSU activities.
In attendance were representation from ACCORD, UNDP, UN-DPA, COMESA and IGAD Special Envoys to South Sudan, Sudan and members of the roster from IGAD region.
