IGAD Delegation Reviews Migration Fund Infrastructure Projects in Djibouti

Addis Ababa, December 9, 2024 (FBC) – The IGAD Regional Migration Fund (RMF) supervision mission, led by Executive Secretary Workneh Gebeyehu and accompanied by senior officials from Djibouti’s Ministries of Foreign Affairs, Interior, Education, and Youth and Culture, recently assessed the progress of key infrastructure projects under the IGAD RMF initiative.

The infrastructure projects, identified through a participatory investment planning exercise in 2021, include the construction of two market centers, a Community Development Center, an Orientation Center in Djibouti Ville within the ONARS (Refugee Agency) compound, and the rehabilitation of Lycée Technique in Ali-Sabieh.

To streamline construction, IGAD established a sub-delegation agreement with NGO partners – Norwegian Refugee Council (NRC) and Danish Refugee Council (DRC) in 2022. These partners facilitated the selection of a Design and Supervision Firm, which prepared the Bill of Quantities (BoQ) and technical specifications, as well as engaged contractors for construction.

Since construction began, regular technical supervisions have been conducted by IGAD, Norwegian Refugee Council (NRC), and relevant government experts, with KfW technical personnel joining for oversight in early July 2024.

Meanwhile, Danish Refugee Council (DRC) has finalized preparation for the construction of the two market centers (one in each location), with a stone-laying ceremony held during the visit.

The mission’s objectives include evaluating the construction progress of the Community Development Center and Lycée Technique against established timelines and standards, addressing any operational challenges faced by the sub-delegatees, contractors, and engineering firms, while showcasing IGAD’s commitment to advancing infrastructure projects that support the development agenda of member states.

Launched in December 2022, this initiative aims to benefit both host communities and refugee populations in Ali-Sabieh and Ali-Addeh by creating job opportunities and improving access to essential socio-economic services.

The IGAD RMF is dedicated to generating economic opportunities and enhancing living conditions for migrants, refugees, and local communities across the IGAD region through investments in fundamental economic and social infrastructure and complementary initiatives, it was stated on the occasion.