March 8, 2025 – Djibouti, Djibouti: On International Women’s Day, the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) and the Government of Japan launched a transformative initiative: “Empowering Women and Youth in the IGAD Region: Overcoming Barriers to Meaningful Participation, Leadership, and Peace & Security.”
The USD 1.5 million, 12-month programme (March 2025 – February 2026) will be implemented across IGAD Member States by the IGAD Secretariat, co-implemented by the IGAD Leadership Academy, and coordinated by the IGAD Gender Department. This initiative aims to address systemic barriers, enhance leadership opportunities, and strengthen the role of women and youth in governance, peace, and security processes.
H.E. Dr. Workneh Gebeyehu, IGAD Executive Secretary, highlighted the importance of this partnership, stating:
“Empowering women and youth is key to building resilient communities and sustainable peace. This collaboration with Japan reflects our shared commitment to ensuring that women and young people are not just participants but decision-makers in shaping the future of our region.”
The Government of Japan reaffirmed its commitment to gender equality and youth empowerment, emphasising the programme’s alignment with its foreign policy efforts to promote inclusive governance and regional stability.
“I would like to express my appreciation to the members of the IGAD Secretariat who have worked tirelessly to make this training possible. I also want to express my strong support for the successful implementation of this project, which has been made possible the high-level commitment from both sides. I would like to request the continued support of His Excellency Mr. Workneh, the Executive Secretary of IGAD, and the ministers of the Djibouti government.” – H.E. M. Keiichi HARA, Ambassador of Japan to Djibouti.
IGAD extends its appreciation to Japan for its steadfast support in advancing gender equality and peacebuilding across the region. This initiative marks a significant step towards creating inclusive leadership spaces and breaking barriers that hinder the participation of women and youth.
Download Press Release below:
Press Release – IGAD and Japan Partner to Empower Women and Youth in Leadership and Peacebuilding
