Initiative Aimed at Addressing Complex Climatic Issues in Eastern Africa Region Unveiled 

Addis Ababa, May 29, 2025 (FMC) — A project aimed at addressing the complex links between climate change, environmental disasters, conflict, and migration in the Eastern Africa region was launched in Addis Ababa today.

Named “Managing the Impact of Environmental Change and Conflict on Mobility in Eastern Africa through Evidence-based Inclusive Policy Dialogue and Collaborative Actions (MECMEA), the 18-month initiative is funded by the EU.

Addressing the launching ceremony, Refugees and Returnees Service Director-General, Teyiba Hassen said the vital regional initiative reflects a shared commitment to tackling one of the most complex and pressing challenges.

The environmental change, conflict and human mobility are interlinked factors demanding urgent and united response, she added.

The director-general noted that the region with remarkable diversity and huge potential is also one of the most vulnerable to climate induced disruptions, droughts, and floods, among others.

Through the Green Legacy Initiative, Ethiopia has committed to restoring degraded environment, managing natural resources and planting billions of trees, she recalled.

Addis Ababa University Vice President, Jeilu Oumer said the project under the university is dedicated to strengthening migration governance, building institutional capacity and fostering inclusive policy dialogue that translate into meaningful change.

Furthermore, “this initiative will not only address immediate regional challenges, but also lay the foundation for long term resilience and sustainable development.”

Horn of Africa Regional Environment Center and Network President, Professor George Owiti said the mission is “to ensure that we can take care of the environment, strengthen the attributes with regard to natural resource management, and advocate for sustainable development.”

The initiative is led by the Horn of Africa Regional Environment Center and Network under the Addis Ababa University, and implemented in collaboration with some key partners across the region, it was learned.

Executive Director of Horn of Africa Regional Environment Center and Network, Professor Mekuria Argaw said the center is a catalyst for collaboration between academic institutions, policymakers, civil society, communities and also the private sector, as reported by ENA.

Over the past 15 years, it has implemented a range of regional programs and projects with tangible and lasting impacts, the professor said, adding that it led initiatives that range from ecosystem restoration, biodiversity conservation to environmental education and community based climate adaptation.

Through evidence-based policymaking, capacity building and policy dialogue, MECMEA is expected to strengthen governance frameworks for climate and conflict-induced mobility across the region.