Horn Of Africa Countries Pledge Action on Climate-Induced Disasters

NAIROBI, Xinhua: The member states of the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD), an East African bloc have reaffirmed their commitment to tackling climate-related emergencies that have undermined growth, stability and resilience.

Speaking at a three-day forum convened by IGAD on the outskirts of Nairobi, the Kenyan capital, senior officials observed that climatic shocks have escalated in the region, worsening resource-based conflicts, hunger, poverty and forced displacement.

Ahmed Amdihun, regional program manager for disaster risk management at the IGAD Climate Prediction and Applications Center, said there is an urgency to scale up investments in people-centered climate action across the region to spur inclusive growth, cohesion and ecosystem resilience.

The IGAD member states, according to Amhidun, have also prioritized anticipatory action to minimize the impact of climatic shocks, including droughts, floods and wildfires, on livelihoods. He added that scientific research should guide early warning systems and anticipatory actions to help Horn of Africa states cope with climate emergencies, which contribute to unregulated human mobility and strife.

Victoria Anib Majur Achut, head of IGAD’s Social Development Unit, noted that rising temperatures have disrupted livelihoods in the region, worsening the fragility of nation-states and their natural assets.

Efforts to build the institutional capacity of IGAD member states to cope with climate emergencies, avert a humanitarian crisis, and foster equity and inclusivity, are underway, Anib said.

Senior policymakers, along with representatives from multilateral agencies and research institutions, gathered at the regional forum, which will run through Thursday, to highlight best practices on climate disaster preparedness and response, enhance policy coordination and identify priority actions to boost resilience across the region.