In a significant step towards strengthening cross-border community resilience in the Horn of Africa, officials from the Inter-Governmental Authority on Development (IGAD) and the USAID’s Cross-Border Community Resilience (CBCR) activity came together today to discuss the progress on the Project.
The USAID’s CBCR activity is a regional initiative, implemented by Chemonics and ACDI/VOCA in collaboration with local organizations, focusing on enhancing the resilience of cross-border clusters in Karamoja, Moyale, and Mandera.
The project is aimed at empowering local entities to address challenges such as conflict, livelihood improvement, and resource management, ultimately reducing the reliance on humanitarian assistance.
Cluster Manager CBCR, Philip Aemun, highlighted the vital work being done within the cluster corridors, emphasizing the project’s focus on building capacity for locally-led development, strengthening social cohesion, expanding livelihood and employment opportunities, improving natural resource management, and promoting collaboration among cluster stakeholders.
Dr. Adan Bika of IGAD reiterated IGAD’s commitment to achieving its vision for pastoralists and ending drought emergencies.
He emphasized the alignment of CBCR with regional strategies for Drought Disaster, Resilience, and Sustainability Initiatives, underlining the importance of such collaborative efforts in achieving lasting impact.
Deputy Governor Dr. John Erus extended his appreciation for the strengthening of partnerships and the support from both IGAD and the County Government.
He commended the Authority’s role in leading the framework agreement for peace efforts and encouraged continued engagement on border concerns between Kenya and Uganda.
DG Erus also highlighted the cooperation and development enhanced between the national and county governments, in recognizing the importance of effective collaboration in achieving the project’s objectives.
This collaboration between IGAD and CBCR represents a significant stride towards building resilience in cross-border communities, reducing the need for humanitarian assistance, and fostering sustainable development in the Horn of Africa.
In attendance were Ahmed Mohammed (IGAD), Nicholas Omwolo (Program manager CBCR), and Damien Aryong (CEO TULDO).
