IGAD Assumes Chairmanship of Inter-Regional Economic Communities Coordination Platform

The Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) has officially taken over the chairmanship of the Inter-Regional Economic Communities (RECs) Coordination Platform, marking a significant step in advancing Africa’s regional integration and cooperation efforts.

H.E. Dr. Workneh Gebeyehu, IGAD Executive Secretary, assumed leadership for the 2024-2025 period, succeeding H.E. Dr. Omar Alieu Touray, President of the ECOWAS Commission. IGAD commended Dr. Touray’s leadership in strengthening coordination among Africa’s regional economic blocs.

IGAD’s Priorities as Chair

As the new chair, IGAD is set to drive a collaborative and forward-looking agenda to enhance regional integration and Africa’s global positioning. Its key priorities include:

• Leveraging Digital Innovation & AI: IGAD will work with RECs to harness emerging technologies for economic growth and resilience.
• Strengthening AU Collaboration: IGAD aims to deepen engagement with the African Union Commission, ensuring RECs play a strategic role in AU decision-making.
• Enhancing Regional Coordination: The bloc will foster unity and dialogue among RECs and regional mechanisms to tackle shared challenges.
• Promoting Pan-Africanism & Integration: IGAD remains committed to reinforcing regional unity and advancing Africa’s collective voice on global platforms.

By assuming this leadership role, IGAD reaffirms its dedication to advancing Africa’s shared development agenda through strengthened regional cooperation.

Background

The Inter-REC Coordination Platform serves as a strategic mechanism for aligning policies and initiatives among Africa’s key Regional Economic Communities (RECs). These include; IGAD (Horn of Africa), ECOWAS (West Africa), COMESA (Eastern & Southern Africa), EAC (East Africa), SADC (Southern Africa), ECCAS (Central Africa), UMA (North Africa), and CEN-SAD (cross-regional trade & security bloc).

Together, these RECs collaborate to drive economic development, peacebuilding, infrastructure projects, and trade under the framework of Agenda 2063, promoting Africa’s prosperity and global competitiveness.