The Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) has reiterated its commitment to advancing fair and well-governed labour mobility as a key driver of regional integration, dignity, and sustainable development across the Horn of Africa.
Speaking during the opening of the 3rd IGAD Ministerial Conference on Labour, Employment, and Labour Migration held in Nairobi, Fatuma Adan, IGAD’s Head of Mission to the Republic of Kenya, underscored the transformative potential of cross-border labour mobility when effectively managed and coordinated among member states.
“Labour mobility, when well-governed, transforms borders into bridges, connecting skills, opportunities, and shared prosperity across our region,” she said.
The conference brought together labour ministers, senior government officials, and technical experts from IGAD member states to engage on strategies that strengthen regional frameworks for decent work, fair mobility, and inclusive economic growth.
The discussions focused on aligning national and regional policies to ensure protection of migrant workers, enhance social security coordination, and create equitable labour markets that support both sending and receiving countries.
Delegates also reviewed progress on the IGAD Regional Migration Policy Framework and explored ways to deepen cooperation with international partners to support evidence-based policymaking, skills recognition, and data-driven planning in labour migration governance.
The gathering reaffirmed IGAD’s commitment to positioning labour migration as a cornerstone of regional integration and economic resilience, a vision anchored in shared prosperity, mutual respect, and sustainable development for all citizens of the region