Djibouti, Djibouti, March 17, 2025 – The Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) is set to host the 4th IGAD Scientific Conference from May 19-21, 2025, under the theme: “Migration, Displacement, and Urbanisation: Implications for Sustainable Development.”
The conference will serve as a premier platform for scholars, researchers, policymakers, and development practitioners to examine the intricate linkages between migration, displacement, and urbanisation, and their impact on sustainable development across the IGAD region. By fostering interdisciplinary dialogue, the conference seeks to generate actionable recommendations to inform evidence-based policymaking at both regional and national levels.
Urbanisation is profoundly reshaping the IGAD region, with cities increasingly serving as primary destinations for migrants and displaced populations. This trend presents both opportunities and challenges—ranging from economic revitalisation and social cohesion to infrastructure pressure and governance complexities. The unprecedented scale of migration and displacement necessitates innovative and inclusive urban planning strategies that balance humanitarian response with long-term development objectives.
The 4th IGAD Scientific Conference will explore these dynamics under five key sub-themes: drivers and root causes; urban governance and policy; socio-economic integration; financing, investment, and innovation; and data and evidence for policy and planning.
The convening of this conference underscores IGAD’s enduring commitment to advancing research-driven policies that address the complexities of migration and urbanisation. By engaging a broad spectrum of stakeholders, the conference will catalyse critical discussions aimed at shaping inclusive and resilient urban futures across the region.
The 4th IGAD Scientific Conference is organised in collaboration with Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) GmbH, the Government of Sweden, Cities Alliance, ReDSS, and the IGAD Universities Forum.
For more information, visit: www.igad.int/4th-scientific-conference/
For more on the conference:
Yemisirach Benalfew (Ms)
Email: scientificconf2025@igad.int
For media Inquiries
Bob Nuwagira
Email: bob.nuwagira@igad.int
Austine Opata
Email: austine.opata@igad.int
