Women refugees and migrants in the IGAD region play a crucial role in social development. They create opportunities and contribute to success while facing numerous challenges. These women bring valuable knowledge, skills, and experiences that enrich their host communities. They actively engage in social and economic activities, including entrepreneurship, education, and healthcare, positively impacting their families and societies as a whole.
Many of these women actively participate in entrepreneurship by starting small businesses, such as food stalls, tailoring services, and artisan crafts. These ventures not only provide them with an income but also create job opportunities for others. Even though their number is limited, in the education sector, they often work as teachers or tutors, sharing their knowledge and fostering a love for learning among both children and adults. In healthcare, they serve as caregivers or health promoters, addressing critical public health needs and improving access to essential services in their communities. Moreover migrant and refugee women often take on roles as mediators and facilitators, helping to bridge cultural gaps and foster social cohesion within host communities.
Despite their numerous contributions, women across the region face significant challenges. One of the greatest barriers is discrimination, which manifests in various forms, including social stigma and legal barriers that impede their access to basic services. Additionally, their access to resources is often limited, such as financial assistance, and training programs. Moreover, refugee and migrant women have inadequate access to healthcare, especially reproductive health services and supportive networks—restricting their potential to thrive. Employment opportunities are scarce, often forcing women into the informal sector where job security and benefits are lacking. In displacement settings, women and girls face increased risks due to existing patriarchal norms and customs that affect their access to basic needs, economic opportunities, resources, and decision-making. These gender inequalities make them more vulnerable to poverty, neglect, and abuse, negatively impacting their overall well-being. Additionally, their limited representation in political and decision-making spaces prevents the development and implementation of policies that promote gender equality.
IGAD is actively working to create a supportive environment for migrants and refugees, especially women and girls, through various programs and initiatives. These include the Kampala Declaration on Livelihoods, the Regional Qualification Framework, and efforts aimed at achieving Durable Solutions for Refugees, Returnees, and Host Communities. The IGAD Policy Framework on Refugee Protection acknowledges the crucial role that refugee women play in promoting social development within the region. Recognizing the challenges they encounter, the framework includes measures aimed at enhancing their socio-economic empowerment and ensuring their active involvement in decision-making processes at both national and regional levels. It further supports the inclusion of refugee women in community preparedness and climate adaptation initiatives and efforts, addressing their specific needs and contributing to sustainable environmental management.
Women play a vital role in advancing social development, driving economic growth, and enriching culture.
Their experiences provide unique insights and ideas that contribute to more inclusive and diverse societies.
Hence It is essential to ensure that their voices are heard and that their contributions are Women are recognized and valued as change agents capable of transforming their communities.
Collaboration among governments, international organizations, and civil society is essential for creating a supportive ecosystem that empowers women. This partnership among stakeholders fosters a vibrant environment where women are encouraged to reach their full potential and make meaningful contributions to society, allowing them to thrive and excel in all their endeavours.
