The IGAD conference on labour migration in Nairobi, brought together experts and officials from across the Horn of Africa to exchange views on better ways of dealing with labour mobility, employment, and migration across the region.
The experts’ two-day conference, organized by the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) in collaboration with the Government of Kenya and the International Labour Organization (ILO), made possible through financial assistance from the European Union (EU).
Gathered under the theme “Improving Labour Migration and Mobility Governance for Prosperity,” the conference brought together senior officials from Labour, Interior, and Foreign Affairs ministries, trade unions, and employer federations from IGAD member countries.
Shaping Policies for Regional Growth
The Nairobi gathering shaped crucial policy recommendations that will guide ministers from the IGAD region when they sit down on 22 October 2025 for the 3rd IGAD Ministerial Conference on Labour, Employment and Labour Migration.
Experts gave priority to three priorities:
- Tracking progress on labour and migration under the Djibouti Declaration’s Seven Pillars
- Combating irregular migration and humanitarian issues along the Red Sea corridor
- Promoting the IGAD Single Visa Initiative for enhancing regional integration, trade, and tourism
The recommendations will then inform the Ministerial Communiqué and official launch of the EU-funded
Support to Free Movement of Persons and Transhumance Project (FMPT II).
Regional Voices
Kenya’s Commissioner of Labour at the Ministry of Labour and Social Protection, Hellen Apiyo, stated that the country was honored to be hosting the conference.
“As a region, we must develop solutions that protect migrant workers, their rights, and expand employment opportunities especially for young people looking for quality jobs.”
Souleimon Meïmin Robleh, Secretary General of the Ministry of Interior in Djibouti, insisted regional mobility was not an issue but an opportunity.
“Regional mobility poses no threat it is a force for group development. With the IGAD Free Movement Protocol, we are building a future where borders bring together, not divide, people and economies.”
Mangar Buong Acok, Acting Minister of Interior, South Sudan, added that countries’ cooperation is vital. No country alone can manage migration. There must be cross-border cooperation to stem human trafficking, enable legal movement, and ensure safe and dignified migration for our citizens.”
Amb. Moussa Ali Meigague, IGAD Director of Health and Social Development, stated that there are millions of livelihoods supported by migration.
‘Labour migration is a lifeline for many families. With good governance, it can drive decent work, peace, and economic growth.’.
Ms. Nihan Erdogen, ILO Deputy Regional Director for East, Horn, and Southern Africa, reaffirmed the organization’s commitment.
“Respect for workers’ rights is the sole condition for fair migration to be possible. The ILO keeps on working with IGAD and its Member States in ensuring ethical recruitment and access to social protection.”
Building a Prosperous and Connected Region
The IGAD labour migration conference focused on a shared vision of an inclusive and more integrated region where people and skills movement supports economies rather than dividing them.
By advancing better labour migration governance and regional collaboration, IGAD and its stakeholders hope to create new prospects for employees and drive prosperity in East Africa.
[…] Read Also: IGAD Labour Migration Conference in Nairobi Boosted Regional Workplace Mobility […]