Addis Ababa, Ethiopia – The Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) has officially launched the IGAD Parliamentary Caucus Network with the aim of promoting peace, development, and regional integration. This announcement was made during the High Level Regional Legislators Meeting in Addis Ababa.
The three-day meeting, organized by the IGAD Centre of Excellence for Preventing and Countering Violent Extremism (PCVE) with support from the Swedish government, brought together legislators from Ethiopia, Djibouti, Kenya, Somalia, South Sudan, and Uganda. The initiative seeks to advance discussions on achieving gender-sensitive legislation and marks the official launch of the IGAD Legislators Network.
According to Ethiopian News Agency, the network is expected to play a pivotal role in ensuring peace and stability within the region, emphasizing the critical role of parliament members in allocating resources and overseeing agencies combating terrorism and violent extremism. Deputy Speaker of the House of People’s Representatives, Lomi Bedo, highlighted the importance of integrating gender perspectives into security-related legislation and strengthening cooperation among regional legislators.
Jochim Beijmo, Head of Regional Development Cooperation in Africa at the Embassy of Sweden in Addis Ababa, reaffirmed Sweden’s support for IGAD, stressing the importance of integrating gender equality into efforts against violent extremism. The newly launched network signifies a collective regional effort to address security challenges and foster a peaceful and integrated East Africa.
ADDIS ABABA – Ethiopia’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Taye Atske-Selassie, held a meeting today with Dr. Julius W. Garvey, the son of Marcus Garvey, a leading figure in the 20th-century Black liberation movement. The meeting, which took place at the Foreign Minister’s office, centered on the enduring legacy of Marcus Garvey’s contributions to the Pan-Africanism movement and the broader struggle for the liberation of Black people worldwide.
According to Ethiopian News Agency, Ambassador Taye expressed admiration for Marcus Garvey’s significant role in advocating for the rights and freedoms of Black individuals. He emphasized the importance of honoring the memory and contributions of pioneering Black Pan-Africanist leaders. Dr. Julius W. Garvey, in response, highlighted the profound bond that people of African descent around the globe share with Ethiopia.
The visit comes after Dr. Julius W. Garvey was recently appointed as the guardian of the Global Black History, Heritage, and Education Center in Addis Ababa, signifying his ongoing commitment to preserving and promoting Black history and culture.