The Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) has officially launched the inaugural cohort of the IGAD Leadership Academy (ILA) at the Kenya School of Government in Mombasa. This milestone follows a highly competitive call for applications earlier this year, which saw over 3,000 talented and passionate young people from across the IGAD region apply to be part of this transformative initiative. The ILA, championed by IGAD’s Executive Secretary, H.E. Dr. Workneh Gebeyehu, aims to empower the region’s youth to lead with vision and impact.
In his address to the participants, Dr. Workneh emphasized the critical role of young leaders in shaping the future of the IGAD region. “This is not just a training—it is your call to lead. You are not here by chance. The future of IGAD is not a distant idea—it is you. And the time to lead is not tomorrow, but today,” he declared. The Executive Secretary’s words underscored the academy’s mission to foster transformative leadership that addresses the region’s challenges and drives sustainable development.
The IGAD Leadership Academy is designed to equip young leaders with the skills, knowledge, and networks needed to navigate complex regional issues and contribute to peace, prosperity, and integration. The first cohort, comprising a diverse group of youth from IGAD member states, will undergo rigorous training in leadership, governance, and regional cooperation. The program is tailored to inspire innovative thinking and practical solutions to the region’s most pressing challenges.
Dr. Workneh also highlighted the collaborative effort behind the ILA’s establishment, expressing gratitude to IGAD member states and the Government of Japan for their unwavering support. “Transformative leadership is a shared priority across the region, and the partnership with our member states and Japan has been instrumental in making this academy a reality,” he noted. This collective commitment reflects IGAD’s vision of fostering unity and resilience through empowered youth.
The launch of the first cohort marks the beginning of an ambitious plan to train multiple groups of young leaders in 2025. Two additional cohorts are scheduled to commence later this year, expanding the academy’s reach and impact. The ILA aims to create a dynamic network of change-makers who will drive IGAD’s agenda for regional integration and sustainable development in the years to come.
As the first cohort embarks on this transformative journey, the IGAD Leadership Academy stands as a testament to the region’s belief in the power of its youth. With the support of regional and international partners, the ILA is poised to shape a new generation of leaders ready to tackle the challenges and opportunities of a rapidly evolving region.
