24.03-2017, Nairobi, Kenya – Ministers responsible for interior, security and refugee affairs of the Inter-Governmental Authority on Development (IGAD) today reviewed the regional draft declaration seeking durable solutions for Somali refugees at Kenyatta International Convention Centre, Nairobi, Kenya.
Also in attendance were representatives from Yemen, the African Union Commission, UN agencies and civil society organizations, as well as humanitarian and development partners under the IGAD Partners Forum (IPF) and international bank institutions.
The ministers agreed on a regional approach and stronger cooperation between Somalia and countries of the region on a range of political, security, humanitarian, peace building, development, economic and trade issues to find lasting solutions to forced displacement in the region.
They reviewed the draft declaration and action plan that had been prepared by the technical experts from the region whose details will be presented to the Heads of State and Government for endorsement.
The meeting preceded a special summit of Heads of State and Government that will be convened tomorrow Saturday 25th March 2017 in Nairobi, Kenya bringing together member states of IGAD, the international community and other stakeholders to marshal a comprehensive regional approach to deliver durable solutions for Somali refugees, whilst promoting sustainable reintegration of returnees in Somalia.