ELI5: Explain Like I'm 5

Intergovernmental Authority on Development

Okay kiddo, have you ever heard of a group of grown-ups who work together to help make things better in their country or region? That's kind of what the Intergovernmental Authority on Development, or IGAD, is all about.

IGAD is a group of eight African countries – Djibouti, Eritrea, Ethiopia, Kenya, Somalia, South Sudan, Sudan, and Uganda – who have teamed up to try and solve problems that affect all of them. They want to work together to make sure everyone in their region has a good life and gets along with each other.

Think of it like a big playground at school – everyone wants to have fun and play together, but sometimes there are disagreements and problems that need to be sorted out. IGAD is kind of like the grown-up teacher on the playground who helps the kids work out their problems and make sure everyone is happy.

One of the things IGAD is really concerned about is peace and security. They want everyone in their region to be safe and not have to worry about fighting or violence. They also want to make sure everyone has things like clean water, food, and healthcare.

So, IGAD works together by holding meetings and talking about the problems they're facing. They come up with ideas and solutions together, then they go out and put those plans into action. They might help mediate between two countries if they're having a disagreement, or they might provide aid and support to people who need it.

Overall, IGAD is a really important group of people who are trying to make life better for everyone in their region. They want to make sure everyone is happy, healthy, and feels safe.