The Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) has emphasized the urgency of collective action and the integration of modern technology with indigenous knowledge to effectively tackle the climate change challenges facing the Greater Horn of Africa. Speaking at the inauguration of the 68th Greater Horn of Africa Climate Outlook Forum (GHACOF) in Nairobi, IGAD’s Executive Secretary, Dr. Workneh Gebeyehu, highlighted the critical role of climate predictions and early warning systems in building resilient communities across the region.
The GHACOF, a key platform for climate experts, policymakers, and stakeholders, serves as a forum for discussing and improving climate predictions and integrating climate information into national policies and development plans. Over the course of the two-day event, participants are expected to explore ways to enhance early warning systems, leveraging both technological innovations and traditional knowledge to mitigate the adverse effects of climate change.
Unified Action and Technological Integration
In his address, Dr. Workneh called for unified actions, urging stakeholders to embrace a multi-faceted approach that combines modern technology with indigenous knowledge. He noted that such an approach is essential for building resilient communities capable of confronting the complex challenges posed by climate change.
“Climate change and extreme weather events are no longer a distant threat, but a clear and present danger in our region,” Dr. Workneh stated. “The impacts of climate change, such as extreme weather events, rising sea levels, and increasing temperatures, are being felt across the globe. These changes pose significant risks to our environment, economies, and societies. Early warning plays a crucial role in mitigating these risks.”
The IGAD region, which consists of eight countries in the Horn of Africa, is particularly vulnerable to the impacts of climate change. With 70-75% of the region classified as arid and semi-arid lands, and receiving less than 600 mm of rainfall annually, the effects of climate change are already a daily reality for millions of people. These conditions exacerbate existing vulnerabilities, deepen social and economic disparities, and create fertile ground for conflict and unrest.
Climate Change as a Catalyst for Conflict
IGAD has long recognized the intersection between climate change and security. The Authority has repeatedly pointed out that climate change is not merely an ecological challenge, but also a significant threat to peace and security in the region. The increasing frequency and intensity of extreme weather events, such as droughts and floods, have disrupted livelihoods, displaced populations, and intensified competition for scarce resources.
“Climate change amplifies existing vulnerabilities, deepens social and economic disparities, and fosters conditions ripe for unrest,” IGAD noted. The organization has underscored the importance of addressing these challenges through a combination of policy interventions, technological innovations, and community-driven initiatives.
Building Resilient Communities
At the heart of IGAD’s strategy is the goal of building resilient communities that can withstand and adapt to the impacts of climate change. This involves not only improving climate predictions and early warning systems but also ensuring that climate information is effectively integrated into national policies and development plans. By doing so, IGAD aims to empower communities with the tools and knowledge they need to respond proactively to climate-related challenges.
The GHACOF68, which brings together climate scientists, policymakers, and representatives from various sectors, provides an opportunity for the region to collectively chart a path forward. The forum is expected to produce actionable recommendations that will guide IGAD and its member states in their efforts to combat climate change and its associated risks.
As the forum progresses, the focus will remain on identifying viable solutions that can be implemented at both the local and regional levels. By fostering collaboration and encouraging the integration of technology with traditional practices, IGAD hopes to create a more resilient and secure Horn of Africa, capable of weathering the challenges of a changing climate.
In conclusion, Dr. Workneh’s call for unified action and technological integration reflects IGAD’s commitment to addressing the multifaceted challenges of climate change in the Greater Horn of Africa. The GHACOF68 serves as a critical step in this ongoing journey, providing a platform for dialogue, innovation, and collective action to build a more resilient future for the region.
