IGAD Advocates for Increased Investment in Women's Leadership and Diplomacy

The Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) has emphasized the critical need for enhanced investment to foster women’s leadership, mentorship, and active involvement in decision-making processes. IGAD posits that sustainable peace, development, and regional integration are unattainable without the meaningful inclusion of women.

This strong appeal was articulated during a high-level dialogue in Kampala titled “Women in Diplomacy: Advancing Inclusive Leadership and Global Cooperation.” The event took place in anticipation of the International Day for Women in Diplomacy.

Jocelyn Bichirwa, Head of the IGAD Mission in Uganda, highlighted that women and youth are central to the regional bloc’s development agenda. Despite this, significant barriers continue to impede their participation in leadership and governance roles.

“Women and youth make up the majority of our population across the IGAD region, yet decision-making spaces remain largely dominated by men. We must intentionally create opportunities for women and girls to participate in leadership and decision-making processes,” Bichirwa stated. She added that limited access to opportunities, rather than a lack of competence, is a primary obstacle for women, who possess the necessary skills and qualifications.

Bichirwa also stressed the importance of supportive family and workplace environments, noting the challenges many women face in balancing professional duties with family obligations. She called for supportive systems and a societal shift away from viewing motherhood and leadership as mutually exclusive.

Robel Admasu, Chargé d’Affaires at the Ethiopian Embassy in Uganda, shared Ethiopia’s commitment to promoting women in diplomacy, citing historical figures like Queen of Sheba and Empress Taytu Betul, alongside contemporary leaders such as Ambassador Konjit Sinegiorgis and former President Sahle-Work Zewde.

Admasu detailed Ethiopia’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs policies focused on recruiting, mentoring, and training young women diplomats to enhance female representation. He also noted broader governmental reforms aimed at increasing women’s presence in senior government and decision-making roles.

IGAD, an East African regional body, is implementing a strategy that prioritizes peace, security, regional integration, and inclusive development, with gender inclusion and youth empowerment as cross-cutting themes across all its programs.

These discussions underscore the gap between policy commitments and practical implementation, urging governments, development partners, and the private sector to invest in leadership training, mentorship, and family-friendly policies to empower women. The media’s role in shaping positive narratives around women in leadership was also acknowledged.

Source: https://nilepost.co.ug/news/350210/igad-calls-for-greater-investment-to-encourage-women-into-leadership-and-diplomacy