By Yodit Admasu Tefera, African View
As the Second Africa Climate Summit (ACS2) convened in Addis Ababa under the banner “Accelerating Global Climate Solutions and Financing for Africa’s Resilient and Green Development,” the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) emerged as a central voice for regional climate diplomacy, resilience, and innovation.
At the heart of the summit was the IGAD Pavilion, a dynamic space for dialogue, knowledge exchange, and strategic partnerships. From AI-powered early warning systems to inclusive climate financing, IGAD’s deliberations reflected both urgency and vision.
Leading the IGAD delegation, H.E. Dr. Workneh Gebeyehu, Executive Secretary of IGAD, delivered his message by stating,
“Climate change is the defining challenge of our time, and for the IGAD region, it is an existential issue. The Africa Climate Summit is an opportunity to amplify our collective voice, forge stronger partnerships, and deliver solutions that ensure resilience and prosperity for our people.”
His words set the tone for a series of high-impact sessions that tackled the region’s most pressing climate vulnerabilities.
IGAD’s Pavilion hosted a range of thematic events, including:
• AI for Early Warning Systems: Experts showcased how artificial intelligence is transforming climate forecasting, enabling faster response to droughts, floods, and food insecurity.
• Pastoralist Adaptation: Cross-border collaboration was highlighted as key to help pastoral communities adapt to shifting climate patterns.
• Disaster Risk Financing: Innovative models, such as contingency funding and parametric insurance, were explored to safeguard vulnerable populations against climate shocks.
• Youth & Women in Climate Action: Panels emphasized the need to elevate local voices, especially that of women and youth, in shaping climate solutions.
IGAD also spotlighted the Blue Economy, linking sustainable water resource management to economic growth and climate resilience. Discussions on regional integration underscored the importance of harmonized policies and shared infrastructure to tackle transboundary climate challenges.
IGAD’s ACS2 engagement signals a shift toward Africa-led climate governance, where regional institutions drive innovation, diplomacy, and inclusive development for the Greater Horn of Africa. This initiative translates to:
• Strengthening early warning systems and climate services.
• Mobilizing climate finance tailored to local realities.
• Building resilient infrastructure and food systems.
• Empowering communities through data, dialogue, and design.
As African View continues to amplify regional voices, IGAD’s ACS2 presence offers a compelling blueprint for climate storytelling. It’s a moment to reframe climate narratives from vulnerability to intervention, from crisis to coordination.
These sessions at the ACS 2 drew participants from Ministries, UN agencies, humanitarian organizations, and civil society actors, reinforcing IGAD’s role as a regional convener.
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