June 24, 2025, (Diani, Kenya) — The Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD), through its Gender Affairs Department, has convened a Senior Management Training on Gender Analysis and Mainstreaming to strengthen internal leadership and accountability on gender equality across its programmes and operations.
The training, held in Diani, brings together senior management, from across IGAD divisions and specialised institutions. The objective is to deepen understanding and application of gender analysis tools while advancing practical approaches to gender mainstreaming in policy design, programme delivery, and institutional culture.
The meeting was officially opened by IGAD Executive Secretary, H.E. Dr. Workneh Gebeyehu, who reaffirmed the organisation’s commitment to inclusive development.
“Gender equality is not a one-time goal—it is a continuous journey. At IGAD, we are committed to sustaining this dialogue, leading with intention, and building a region where every gender thrives,” said Dr. Workneh.
The Executive Secretary has prioritised the empowerment of IGAD’s Gender Department and the integration of gender perspectives across all thematic areas—including peace and security, climate resilience, health, and economic development.
Mrs. Amina Farah Maalim, Head of the IGAD Gender Affairs Department, echoed this commitment:
“Institutional change starts with leadership. This training is a critical step toward making gender equality a lived reality across IGAD. We must ensure that gender considerations are not peripheral, but central to how we plan, budget, and deliver impact.”
The training aligns with IGAD’s regional frameworks and Member State commitments to gender equality, and responds to the need for stronger leadership, institutional systems, and accountability mechanisms to deliver tangible results.
The Gender Affairs Department leads this initiative as part of its broader efforts to institutionalise gender responsiveness within IGAD’s internal policies, planning frameworks, and monitoring and evaluation systems.
This training represents a critical step in transforming how IGAD operates—ensuring that gender is not only mainstreamed, but also meaningfully addressed at the highest level of decision-making.
