By Alula Teklemariam
The Inter-governmental Authority on Development (IGAD) singled out health and gender-related issues as constituting a significant threat to people in refugee camps.
Created in 1996 by 8 member states of the Horn, the regional bloc reviewed its 18-month performance in Addis Ababa.
The gist of the report is that communicable diseases like TB, HIV and Malaria are spreading at an alarming rate, heavily impacting women and children.
Such regional issues thus require collective efforts to bring about sustainable solution, according to the eight-country member regional bloc.
Speaking at the event, Director-General of the Ethiopian Refugees & Returnees Service, Teyba Hassen, reiterated Ethiopia’s commitment to contribute its fair share in supporting refugees, returnees and asylum seekers.
Hassen further called upon IGAD member states to intensify cooperation in a way that permanently resolves growing challenges across the region.
Participants of the event suggest member states to draft a common health policy to be implemented in border areas to help prevent health related problems.
Kenyan National TB Program Manager, Dr. Immaculate Kathure, underlined that refugees deserve healthy environment, citing the necessity for cooperative efforts and ensure their well-being.
Participants drawn from all member states attended the two-day event.//