IGADD stands for Intergovernmental Authority on Development. It is an eight-member regional organization comprising governments from the Horn of Africa, Nile Valley, and the Great Lakes region. IGADD's primary objective is to promote regional cooperation and integration for sustainable development and regional peace and security.
The organization was founded in 1986, originally as the Intergovernmental Authority on Drought and Development, with the primary purpose of coordinating efforts to combat devastating droughts that severely affected member countries. Over time, IGADD expanded its scope to include broader regional issues such as conflict resolution, peacebuilding, and socio-economic development.
IGADD plays a crucial role in promoting peace and stability in a region known for its protracted conflicts and political instability. Through its Conflict Early Warning and Response Mechanism, IGADD monitors potential conflicts, facilitates dialogue among member states, and mediates in peace negotiations.
Moreover, IGADD spearheads various programs and initiatives in key sectors, including agriculture, infrastructure development, natural resource management, trade, and investment. By promoting economic integration and regional cooperation, IGADD seeks to address common challenges and achieve sustainable development.
The organization operates through its governance structures, including the Assembly of Heads of State and Government, Council of Ministers, and specialized technical committees. These structures ensure the coordination, implementation, and monitoring of agreed-upon policies and programs.
Overall, IGADD serves as an important platform for member states to collectively address regional challenges, foster economic growth, and maintain peace and stability, thus contributing to the overall development and well-being of the people in the Horn of Africa, Nile Valley, and Great Lakes region.
