The IGAD Secretariat is advancing efforts to promote inclusive economic growth across the Horn of Africa through the implementation of its Regional Trade Policy 2022–2026, a framework designed to expand opportunities for women, youth, refugees, migrants, and micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs).
The policy is anchored on the recognition that trade remains a powerful driver of economic development, job creation, and entrepreneurship across the region.
By making regional markets more accessible and inclusive, IGAD aims to ensure that historically marginalised groups are able to actively participate in and benefit from trade.
Through the policy, IGAD is working closely with member states to address structural barriers that have traditionally limited participation in cross-border trade.
These efforts include simplifying trade procedures, improving trade systems, and strengthening the capacity of MSMEs to engage competitively in regional markets.
Officials note that a key focus of the policy is empowering women and youth, who form a significant portion of informal and small-scale traders in the region.
By promoting fair access to market opportunities and reducing administrative and logistical barriers, the initiative seeks to unlock their full economic potential.
In addition, the policy recognises the important role played by refugees and migrants in regional trade ecosystems.
By integrating these groups into formal trade systems, IGAD aims to promote economic inclusion while enhancing stability and resilience across borders.
The Regional Trade Policy also places strong emphasis on strengthening MSMEs, which are widely regarded as the backbone of many economies in the IGAD region.
Support measures include improving access to information, enhancing business skills, and creating an enabling environment for enterprise growth.
Beyond trade facilitation, the initiative contributes to broader development goals by expanding livelihood opportunities and supporting sustainable economic growth.
By fostering inclusive trade, IGAD is helping to build stronger and more interconnected regional economies.
The organisation maintains that inclusive trade is central to achieving shared prosperity across the region.
By ensuring that all groups, particularly those often left behind, can participate meaningfully in economic activities, the policy is expected to drive long-term growth and resilience.
As implementation continues, IGAD and its partners remain focused on translating policy into tangible outcomes for communities, reinforcing the role of trade as a catalyst for inclusive development across the Horn of Africa.