Nairobi, Kenya – The Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) launched its Youth, Peace, and Security Conference in Nairobi, focused on empowering young people to drive stability and prosperity in the region. The two-day event brought together hundreds of youth leaders, experts, and political figures from IGAD member states, all dedicated to promoting youth participation in peace-building and governance.
The conference kicked off with speeches from IGAD Secretary General Mr. Workneh Gebeyehu and Kenyan Minister for Youth, Innovation, and Sports Mr. Salim Mvurya. IGAD Youth Representative Sam Ogwal highlighted the importance of youth leadership in finding sustainable solutions for local communities.
Day one featured panel discussions on youth involvement in peace processes, their role in ensuring peaceful elections, and leveraging digital platforms for peace-building. The event provided an opportunity for participants to exchange ideas and develop actionable strategies for deeper youth engagement.
The conference, organized by IGAD's Gender Office in partnership with the Peace and Security and Health and Social Development Departments, aligns with the IGAD Youth Plan (2021-2030) and the UN Youth, Peace, and Security agenda. Its goal is to produce policy recommendations to enhance youth influence in decision-making and peace-building across the IGAD region.