November 27, 2024 (Kampala, Uganda): The Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) held the first steering committee meeting of the second phase of the Sweden-funded Protection and Solutions for Displaced Persons Project. During the meeting, the committee approved its draft Terms of Reference to address the ongoing challenges of protracted displacement within the IGAD region.
The Protection and Solutions for Displaced Persons Project aims to establish a robust steering committee to guide the comprehensive execution of its initiatives. This includes project management, planning, implementation, and supervision of activities. Key tasks include facilitating Project Implementation Steering Committee and Review Meetings and ensuring alignment with recommendations established by IGAD member states during Phase 1 (2010–2024).
Speaking on behalf of IGAD Executive Secretary H.E. Dr. Workneh Gebeyehu, Madam Fathia Alwan, Director of the Health and Social Development Division, highlighted the project’s commitment to amplifying the voices and addressing the concerns of displaced persons, particularly women and girls. She emphasised the importance of maintaining open-door policies despite the scale of displacement challenges caused by ongoing conflicts in Sudan and the Democratic Republic of Congo.
Madam Alwan commended Sweden’s continued support, stating:
“I commend Sweden for funding this new phase, which began in May 2024, building upon and consolidating the results of the first phase (2010–2024).”
Madam Egla, representing the Government of Sweden, reflected on the achievements of the first phase, noting progress in harmonising refugee management policies across the IGAD region. She stressed that the increasing numbers of displaced persons due to conflict and climate-related disasters demand comprehensive and coordinated solutions for refugees and host communities.
“We are proud to support IGAD in this second phase and to continue our partnership in addressing forced displacement challenges. Sweden is happy to collaborate with IGAD and its member states in tackling these pressing issues,” she expressed.
Patrick Okello, Commissioner for Refugees in the Office of the Prime Minister, Uganda, underscored the importance of regional organisations like IGAD in advancing refugee protection and regional cooperation.
“I am particularly grateful for IGAD’s role in advancing knowledge, engagement, and transforming refugee well-being strategies in our countries. Rigorous, ethical interventions provide essential evidence for protection and rights-based policies,” Commissioner Okello stated.
The IGAD project, Towards Effective Protection and Comprehensive Solutions for Forcibly Displaced Persons in the IGAD Region, seeks to support member states in reducing the vulnerabilities of refugees and host communities, ensuring fair treatment, and finding lasting solutions.
The steering committee comprises refugee commissioners, monitoring and evaluation focal points, representatives from ministries of social services, UNHCR, and the donor agency.
Key outcomes of the meeting include:
- Approval of Draft Terms of Reference: The committee adopted the draft Terms of Reference, ensuring governance and oversight for seamless project execution.
- Establishment of a Steering Committee: A dedicated steering committee was formed to oversee project implementation, building on insights and directives from the first phase.
- Strengthened Collaboration: Stakeholders emphasised continued partnerships to enhance refugee protection and resilience strategies in the IGAD region.
This initiative, implemented in partnership with Sweden, reflects IGAD’s ongoing commitment to fostering sustainable solutions for displaced persons and host communities in the region.
