Launch of the Peaceful and Resilient Borderlands Programme (PRBP)

Today marks the official launch of the Peaceful and Resilient Borderlands Programme (PRBP), an initiative aimed at enhancing the lives of people in the cross-border areas of the Horn of Africa. The launch event, held in Nairobi, Kenya, brought together key stakeholders, including representatives from the European Union, the German Federal Ministry of Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ), the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD), IGAD member states, and implementing partners.

The Peaceful Resilience Borderlands Programme (PRBP) tackles key challenge affecting border clusters in the IGAD region, by addressing the root causes of instability and promoting socio-economic development. By fostering coordination among local authorities, regional bodies, and community stakeholders, the programme aims to enhance information sharing and exchanges, mitigate conflicts, and support sustainable development in the targeted IGAD border clusters.

Running from 1 February 2024 to 31 January 2026, the PRBP focuses on three key IGAD cross-border clusters: Cluster I (South Omo/Turkana), Cluster II (Borana/Moyale), and Cluster III (Mandera Triangle). The programme places a strong emphasis on financial, institutional, and policy sustainability, integrating its outputs into government planning systems to ensure long-term impact. It ensures that key issues relevant to these clusters are reflected in national and regional policies and development strategies.

Additionally, the PRBP prioritises gender equality, human rights, and community-based disaster preparedness, fostering inclusive and equitable development. The ultimate goal is to build peaceful and resilient communities that can adapt and respond to various challenges. This may include environmental disasters and socio-economic disruptions, while ensuring that cross-border cooperation continues to drive sustainable growth in the region.

The European Union Delegation to Kenya Deputy Ambassador, Ondrej Simek, who was at the event, notes

“The European Union strongly believes in the value of uniting across borders. Through our own history, we understand the value of supporting communities, who are connected through their shared cultural, family and economic ties. Through the Peaceful and Resilient Borderlands programme we intend to build on these ties to contribute to improved stability and social cohesion. The ultimate goal is to improve the lives of communities.”