Addis Ababa, Ethiopia – (African Boulevard News) – The new head of the International Organization for Migration (IOM), Amy Pope, arrived in Addis Ababa on Sunday (Oct. 8) for her first official visit to Africa. Pope wasted no time in getting down to business, as she met with the African Union Commission chair on Monday (Oct. 09) to discuss key issues regarding migration in the region.
During the meeting, Pope emphasized the need to facilitate the movements of migrants and find better ways to address the challenges they face. She highlighted the importance of collaboration between the IOM and the African Union in promoting safe and orderly migration.
“We have to work together to find solutions that respect the human rights of migrants and ensure their safety,” Pope said. “This visit is an opportunity for us to align our priorities and explore avenues of cooperation.”
Ethiopia, with its strategic location and vibrant economy, has long been a major transit and destination country for migrants from various parts of Africa. It is estimated that around 2.5 million migrants reside in Ethiopia, while many others pass through on their way to other destinations.
As the head of the IOM, Pope brings a wealth of experience to the table, having served as the Deputy Homeland Security Advisor to former U.S. President Barack Obama. Her track record in addressing migration issues and her commitment to finding sustainable solutions make her a key player in the field.
Experts and stakeholders in migration and humanitarian affairs have praised Pope’s appointment as an excellent choice. They believe that her leadership will bring fresh perspectives and ideas to tackle the complex challenges of migration in Africa.
“Amy Pope’s expertise in migration policy will be invaluable in addressing the growing migration flows in Africa,” said Dr. Jane Kamau, a migration scholar at the African Institute for Policy Analysis. “Her willingness to engage with regional bodies like the African Union shows her commitment to finding collaborative solutions.”
Pope’s visit comes at a crucial time when migration is high on the global agenda. The African continent continues to grapple with internal displacement due to conflict and environmental factors, as well as the cross-border movement of people in search of better opportunities.
As Pope begins her tenure as the head of the IOM, her visit to Ethiopia serves as a strong indication of the organization’s commitment to addressing migration challenges in Africa. With her experience and dedication, she is well-placed to lead efforts in facilitating safe, orderly, and dignified migration in the region.
The IOM’s engagement with the African Union and other stakeholders will be crucial in finding effective and sustainable solutions. As Pope concludes her visit to Ethiopia, her next steps will likely focus on strengthening partnerships and putting plans into action to ensure that migrants’ rights are protected, and their journeys are made safer and more secure.
