Dr. Workneh Gebeyehu, the Executive Secretary of the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD), landed in Uganda on Monday in preparation for today’s pivotal event — the signing of the Protocol on Free Movement of Persons within the IGAD region.
The protocol aims to facilitate easier movement across borders for citizens of member states, promoting regional integration and economic cooperation.
Dr. Workneh was received by the IGAD delegation in Uganda, led by Ms Joselyn Bigirwa.
The signing ceremony, taking place in Kampala, marks a significant milestone in IGAD’s efforts to enhance regional connectivity and cooperation among its member countries. This protocol is expected to bolster socio-economic ties and improve access to opportunities for millions of people in the IGAD region, which includes Djibouti, Eritrea, Ethiopia, Kenya, Somalia, South Sudan, Sudan, and Uganda.
The Free Movement Protocol aligns with the African Union’s Agenda 2063, which envisions an integrated, prosperous, and peaceful Africa. It also supports the continent’s broader goals of sustainable development and economic integration.
Today’s signing of the Protocol on Free Movement of Persons within the IGAD region is the culmination of years of concerted efforts and collaboration among member states and international partners. The journey towards this landmark agreement began in earnest on February 26, 2020, in Khartoum, Sudan, when ministers responsible for Internal Affairs and Labour from IGAD member states convened to endorse the protocol.
The meeting featured support from the EU, IOM, and ILO, all of whom reaffirmed their commitment to the protocol’s implementation.
This protocol is part of a broader three-year project funded by the European Union Trust Fund (EUTF), aimed at facilitating free movement and transhumance in the IGAD region.
