March 24-25, 2026 (JUBA, South Sudan) During the Policy Dialogue on Ratification of the IGAD Transhumance Protocol for National and Sub-National Local Authorities of South Sudan various speakers reaffirmed support towards ongoing processes of the Protocol’s implementation.
“Though political borders are rigid in nature, ecological border connections are fluid. People living in border areas move between countries to access resources strategically. The importance of the IGAD Protocol on transhumance in sustaining these cross-border ecologies cannot be overemphasized. ICPALD’s role is to facilitate conversations around the Protocol’s ratification and implementation which we will continue to do,” said Dr. Guyo Roba, ICPALD Head of Drylands Development, speaking on behalf of Dr. Dereje Wakjira, ICPALD Director.
“For South Sudan, ratifying this Protocol is a strategic step toward strengthening national and regional stability. It will enhance collaboration with neighbouring countries, improve governance of pastoral movements and contribute to sustainable peace and development—particularly in border areas that are often most affected by conflict,” said Dr. Victoria Anib, IGAD Head of Mission in South Sudan on behalf of H.E. Dr. Workneh Gebeyehu, IGAD Executive Secretary.
“Many communities in South Sudan depend on livestock for survival. We will support the implementation of the Protocol for the benefit of our country while protecting national interests. This meeting will arrive at a relevant way forward for the next steps of the Transhumance Protocol roadmap,” said Hon. Onyoti Adigo Nyikwec, South Sudan Minister of Livestock and Fisheries
In attendance at the two-day meeting were members of several specialized standing committees on: Agriculture and Food Security, Livestock and Animal Resources; Legislation Affairs, Parliamentary Affairs, and Foreign Affairs. Also present were representatives from relevant ministries: Livestock and Animal Resources, Foreign Affairs, Justice and Constitutional Affairs, and Cabinet Affairs.
Deliberations centered on the status of the recommendations and way forward arising from the previous policy makers meeting held on 2-3 September 2025 in Rajaf. The South Sudan government processes required to ratify the IGAD Transhumance Protocol, going forward, were also outlined.
Following the deliberations, a three-member task force comprising Ministry of Foreign Affairs & International Cooperation; Ministry of Justice & Constitutional Affairs; the Transitional National Legislative Assembly specialized standing committee on livestock & fisheries, was constituted to ensure the next steps towards the ratification of the Protocol are expedited.
This policy dialogue session was funded by the EU under Phase II of the Support to Free Movement of Persons and Transhumance in the IGAD Region.
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