IGAD and African Religious Leaders Unite for Peace, Climate Action, and Development in the Horn of Africa

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The African Council of Religious Leaders – Religions for Peace (ACRL-RfP) and the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) held a high-level dialogue today, bringing together senior religious leaders and IGAD Executive Secretary H.E. Dr. Workneh Gebeyehu. The meeting, which emphasized the critical role of religious leaders in governance, conflict resolution, climate adaptation, and sustainable development, culminated in a commitment to formalize collaboration through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU).

The dialogue centered around the complex issues facing the Greater Horn of Africa, including ongoing conflicts, climate change, and socio-economic instability. A policy brief presented by IGAD and ACRL-RfP identified opportunities for collaborative action, highlighting the need for joint efforts to address these challenges. Both parties expressed appreciation for the openness and dedication demonstrated during the engagement, noting that the collaboration marks a significant milestone for peace, stability, and sustainable development in the region.

The meeting underscored the deteriorating humanitarian situation in Sudan, where ongoing violence has displaced over 12 million people, and left nearly 5 million at risk of starvation due to food shortages and destruction of infrastructure. IGAD and ACRL-RfP leaders jointly called for an immediate ceasefire and inclusive peace talks, advocating for the involvement of local leaders, women, youth, and people with disabilities. Religious leaders, known for their influence and community trust, were highlighted as critical mediators in the peace process, humanitarian outreach, and fostering social healing.

Religious networks are set to be integrated into IGAD’s Conflict Early Warning and Response Mechanism (CEWARN), as IGAD recognized the effectiveness of religious leaders in detecting and addressing potential conflicts. This integration aims to bolster early warning systems and facilitate prompt interventions. ACRL-RfP commended IGAD’s leadership on climate initiatives, particularly in arid and semi-arid lands affected by recurrent droughts and resource conflicts. Religious leaders pledged to support IGAD in mobilizing local resources and implementing community-focused climate adaptation programs.

“Religious leaders play a vital role as advocates for peace, and their trusted community connections make them indispensable in resolving conflicts,” Dr. Gebeyehu said. He acknowledged the unique moral authority that religious figures hold, noting their ability to foster tolerance, social cohesion, and accountability, particularly in fragile regions.

Both organizations committed to regular dialogues, joint capacity-building programs, and advocacy initiatives to strengthen the role of religious leaders in policy formulation, especially on issues of youth and gender equity. ACRL-RfP and IGAD agreed to prioritize community resilience, inclusivity, and the well-being of populations across the region, reaffirming their mission to build a peaceful, resilient, and prosperous future for the Greater Horn of Africa.

In closing, Dr. Gebeyehu referenced Pope Francis’ words, underscoring the universal nature of the collaboration: “The path to peace and reconciliation requires the commitment of all. Only then will we foster a culture of mutual respect and understanding.” This partnership, IGAD emphasized, will work toward a stable and thriving IGAD region, fostering development and promoting lasting peace.


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