Addis Ababa, May 18, 2024 (FBC) – The eminent persons and elders have a very critical role in supporting the efforts of IGAD find solutions to the multifaceted challenges facing the region, Executive Secretary of the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) Workneh Gebeyehu said.
IGAD eminent persons induction and orientation meeting was held in Addis Ababa, comprising renowned personalities from each member states.
The body of eminent persons is tasked with providing advice on key IGAD areas of cooperation, leveraging their rich experience and influence across various sectors, including peace, development, trade and regional integration and climate change.
Speaking on the occasion, Executive Secretary of the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) Workneh Gebeyehu said this is the day that we start the long journey.
The very reason we are establishing the Council of Eminent Personalities is to support the endeavors of IGAD which we are working on peace and security, environment and cross border migration in the region, among others.
He urged eminent persons to play an active role to be a voice for the voiceless who are suffering because of the conflict in the region.
Moreover, he elaborated that all of the leaders of IGAD member states have full support for the eminent persons constituting this council.
Minister of Justice Gedion Timothewos on his part commended IGAD for the initiative they have taken in bringing together this council of eminent personalities and elders in the region.
“I believe this is a very critical initiative in a region that is ravaged by conflict and discord,” he stated.
Recalling the motto of IGAD is peace, prosperity and regional integration, he said, adding for this aspiration to be realized such a council of eminent persons would have a very critical role.
Moreover, he elaborated that the elders and the eminent personalities are the repositories of the communal wisdom.
Therefore, he reiterated the unwavering support of the government of Ethiopia to help the council in all its initiative and efforts.
Members of the IGAD Council of Eminent Persons on their part expressed their commitment to work closely with IGAD and national actors to find common and alternative African solutions to the complex African problems and challenges facing the region within the rich African traditions and values.