Intergovernmental Authority on Development launches the IGAD
Leadership Academy (ILA) at the Kenya School of Government, Mombasa/IGAD
The Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) has officially launched the IGAD Leadership Academy (ILA), marking a significant step in grooming future leaders across the Horn of Africa.
The new program, backed by the Government of Japan, aims to train young leaders, particularly women, on skills essential for peace, development, and governance.
The first edition of the Leadership Development Training, known as Cohort One, opened this week in Mombasa, Kenya.
The four-day intensive training brings together 25 young participants from across IGAD member states.
Speaking during the closing ceremony, IGAD executive secretary Workneh Gebeyehu urged the participants to go out and lead boldly, dream and serve the people with integrity.
“Out of the more than 3,000 brilliant, passionate young people who applied for this training from across the IGAD region - from the Great Horn of Africa and beyond-you were chosen. You were chosen not just for your intelligence, but for your potential.
“Not just for your voice, but for your vision. And today, you stand together, representing the hopes and dreams of a region ready to rise. This is not just a training. This is a call to lead,” he said.
The executive secretary reiterated that the participants are seen as key to bridging the region’s leadership gap and promoting stability.
Japan’s support is rooted in its broader commitment to peacebuilding in Africa.
Speaking at the opening ceremony, Yukie Mochizuki from the Embassy of Japan in Kenya praised IGAD’s efforts in setting up the academy and reaffirmed Japan’s support for long-term peace and development in the region.
“The Horn of Africa faces serious challenges from ongoing conflicts and post-conflict transitions,” said Mochizuki.
“We need individuals who can lead with vision and integrity. That is why Japan is proud to support this important initiative.”
The ILA training incorporates the Inner Development Goals (IDGs), focusing not only on strategic thinking and communication, but also on building self-awareness, adaptability, and ethical leadership.
The Japanese government emphasized the importance of involving women in leadership and peacebuilding, noting that they are often the most affected by conflict but also key agents of change.
The IGAD Leadership Academy stands as a new pillar for regional cooperation and development, with Japan pledging continued support.
