IGAD urges greater youth inclusion in decision-making across region
The Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) has called for urgent action to place young people at the forefront of political and economic decision-making in the region.
According to the IGAD Secretary-General Workneh Gebeyehu, youth energy, creativity, and innovation must be harnessed to strengthen social cohesion, sustain peace, and achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
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Speaking when he convened the IGAD Youth Peace and Security Conference in Nairobi on Wednesday, August 13, 2025, he stated that it is the region’s collective responsibility to create a world where young people feel valued, included, and empowered to shape their future.
“There is a need now more than ever for the youth to be included in the front and centre. They need to participate and be part of decision-making; the energy and innovation need to be harnessed and strengthened to have them be change makers and leaders. The world needs to strengthen social cohesion, sustain peace and achieve sustainable development goals.
He noted that the growing mobilisation of young people and their advocacy for a seat at the decision-making table has caught the attention of the international community, leading to stronger partnerships and inclusive governance frameworks.
According to Workneh, youth participation in regional bodies and national platforms demonstrates a growing recognition of their invaluable contributions to sustainable development, human rights, and peace and security.
“Young people in the African Union, IGAD or national settings demonstrate the increased recognition of the need to include young people and acknowledge their invaluable contribution to sustainable development goals, human rights and peace and security,” he added.
Furthermore, he stated that the youth’s meaningful participation in governance and peacebuilding is essential, driving reconciliation and grassroots transformation across the region.
Conflict Early Warning and Response Mechanism
Additionally, he noted that through the Conflict Early Warning and Response Mechanism (CEWARN), the authority has empowered young people to become the eyes and ears of peace in their communities.
He said CEWARN’s early warning systems have demonstrated that when youth are equipped with the right tools and trusted with responsibility, they become the most effective peacekeepers.
