August 15, 2025 (NAIROBI, Kenya): IGAD’s Peace and Security Division convened the 2025 Annual Meeting of the IGAD Youth Forum for Peace, following the IGAD Youth Peace and Security Conference. The meeting provided a platform for regional representatives nominated by their respective Member States to review progress, strengthen institutional frameworks, and set priorities for the next two years.
The sessions featured an overview of the Peace and Security Division, discussions on the Terms of Reference (ToR) of the IGAD Youth Forum Council, and a review of the achievements of the Forum’s First Cohort. Participants also identified priority areas for the next two years, including advancing youth participation in peace processes, enhancing coordination with IGAD frameworks, and expanding innovative approaches to youth leadership and collaboration.
A key outcome of the meeting was the appointment of an Advisory Team to support the IGAD Youth Envoy who doubles as the chair of the forum, ensuring continuity and strategic guidance for the Forum. The appointed members are:
- Dr. Nejat Nuredin (Ethiopia) – Deputy Chair
- Adv. Taban Philip (South Sudan) – Secretary General
- Atukunda Siyemah (Uganda)
- Brenda Tom (Kenya)
- Chakira Abdirazak (Djibouti)
In his closing remarks, Mr. Sam Ogwal, IGAD Youth Envoy, congratulated the new advisory members and emphasised the importance of collaboration:
The meeting reaffirmed IGAD’s commitment to the Youth, Peace, and Security (YPS) agenda, emphasising the institutionalisation of youth participation in peacebuilding across the region. With a new advisory team in place and a clear roadmap, the Forum is positioned to play a leading role in amplifying the voices of young people and advancing regional peace efforts.
This activity was supported by the European Union through the APSA IV Programme.
