IGAD opens Kampala office to tackle food insecurity in Uganda

According to Worknech Gebeyehu, the Executive secretary of IGAD, a regional security office will be set up in Kampala with joint support from the World Bank. The close to 94 billion shs initiative is to tame regional food crisis taking on major African nations.

"Most countries have food secure and food insecure areas, we have established an office here in Uganda supported by a 25million USD project by the World Bank. We are now so far in 3 countries, Kenya, Ethiopia and Somalia, aiming at addressing climate issues" Gebeyehu said  adding that 

"We shall work on policy harmonization and integration in trade, investment and migration in the region."

This initiative will provide a coordinated effort to tackle the impacts of climate change on agriculture and other economic activities that contribute to food insecurity. In addition, the implementation of bilateral policies that harmonize trade and investment in the region will create a more conducive environment for economic growth, which will help alleviate food insecurity. It is important for regional organizations and international partners to work together to address the challenges posed by climate change and promote sustainable development.

Jeje Odong, Uganda's minister for foreign affairs acknowledges the role of IGAD in regional peace promotion given the many conflicts hence lowering the risks to investors.

In April 1995, the Assembly of heads of state and government met in Addis Ababa, where they agreed to strengthen cooperation through the organization. IGAD’s Key areas of concern cover agriculture and the environment, economic cooperation and regional integration, health and social development, plus peace and security.

10.9 million people are experiencing acute food insecurity (phase 2 and 3), of which 1.6 million (5%) are in a crisis situation (phase 3) in Uganda, according to data by the integrated food security phase classification.