In a bold step toward reshaping the future of peace and security in the Horn of Africa, young women and youth leaders from across the IGAD region are gathering in Machakos, Kenya, for an intensive Mock Negotiations Training Programme organized by the IGAD Gender Affairs Department in partnership with the IGAD Foreign Service Institute (IFSI). The training runs from June 11 to 13, 2025.
This initiative, generously supported by the Government of Japan, reflects a growing regional commitment to placing youth at the center of conflict resolution and governance. With rising youth populations across the IGAD member states, ensuring that young voices are equipped and empowered to lead peace processes is more critical than ever.
The programme is designed to bridge the gap between theory and practice. Through simulated real-life negotiation and mediation scenarios, participants gain first-hand experience in navigating complex dialogue settings, developing compromise, and fostering consensus. These practical skills are essential for meaningful participation in national and regional peace efforts.
The IGAD Gender Affairs Department underscores that investing in the leadership potential of young women and youth leaders is not just symbolic it is a strategic move toward building inclusive, resilient societies. By empowering a new generation of peacebuilders, IGAD aims to cultivate sustainable solutions to longstanding challenges in the region.
This training is not only a platform for skill-building but also a space for youth from different countries and backgrounds to connect, share perspectives, and form networks that may influence peace and policy in years to come.
