The Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) has underscored the critical role of partnerships and data-driven approaches in addressing food insecurity across the Horn of Africa during a regional workshop held under the Building Resilience for Food and Nutrition Security (BREFONS) programme.
The BREFONS Regional Monitoring and Evaluation (M&E) Working Group workshop brought together experts and stakeholders from across the region to strengthen coordination and enhance the effectiveness of resilience-building initiatives.
The meeting focused on improving M&E systems, promoting knowledge sharing, and aligning strategies to support evidence-based interventions.
The workshop was officially opened by Abebaw Bihonegn on behalf of IGAD Executive Secretary Workneh Gebeyehu.
In his remarks, he emphasised that strong partnerships among governments, development partners, and regional institutions are essential to tackling the persistent challenges of food and nutrition insecurity.
Participants highlighted the importance of reliable data and coordinated monitoring systems in guiding decision-making and ensuring that interventions are both targeted and impactful.
Strengthened M&E frameworks, they noted, are key to tracking progress, identifying gaps, and scaling up successful approaches across member states.
The BREFONS programme is implemented under the IGAD Drought Disaster Resilience and Sustainability Initiative Platform Coordination Unit, which plays a central role in advancing resilience-building efforts in the region.
Deliberations during the workshop also explored ways to enhance collaboration among stakeholders, improve data sharing mechanisms, and harmonise regional approaches to food security programming.
By aligning efforts and leveraging partnerships, IGAD aims to build more resilient communities capable of withstanding climate shocks and other stressors.
The Horn of Africa continues to face recurrent droughts, climate variability, and other challenges that threaten food systems and livelihoods.
IGAD officials reiterated that a coordinated, partnership-driven approach remains vital to delivering sustainable solutions and improving food and nutrition outcomes across the region.
The outcomes of the workshop are expected to inform future programming and strengthen regional efforts to combat food insecurity through evidence-based, collaborative action.