Strengthening Regional Cooperation Against Human Trafficking: Insights from the IGAD Workshop in Uganda
Introduction
From November 18 to 20, 2025, Entebbe, Uganda, hosted a crucial bilateral workshop aimed at bolstering cooperation between Ethiopia and Uganda in combating pressing transnational threats such as human trafficking, migrant smuggling, and illicit financial flows. The event, organized by the Intergovernmental Authority on Development Security Sector Program (IGAD-SSP), gathered senior officials, law enforcement authorities, and legal practitioners to address the complex nature of these security challenges.
Addressing Transnational Security Threats
The workshop kicked off with opening remarks from key figures, including the IGAD SSP Head and representatives from the government of Uganda. Participants gained valuable insights into the evolving landscape of regional security threats. Experts delivered presentations on the intricacies of trafficking and smuggling networks, the flow of illicit finances, and connections to broader criminal activities like cybercrime and terrorism financing. Furthermore, case studies from Ethiopia and Uganda underscored the practical challenges faced in investigations and prosecutions.
Enhancing Criminal Intelligence Collaboration
On the second day, the focus shifted to improving cooperation in criminal, financial, and legal intelligence between Ethiopia and Uganda. Participants evaluated the preparedness of their respective institutions and explored harmonizing national procedures. A hands-on simulation exercise provided an opportunity for teams to navigate a hypothetical cross-border scenario, identifying critical operational gaps and necessary procedural steps for effective collaboration.
Developing a Bilateral Operational Framework
The final day centered on crafting a robust bilateral operational framework integrating legal, financial, and intelligence-led strategies. A joint action plan was established, detailing priority recommendations for disrupting trafficking networks and illicit financial flows. In her closing remarks, IGAD SSP Head, Mrs. Nejat Abdulrahman, reaffirmed the organization’s dedication to facilitating continued cooperation among member states.
Achievements and Future Directions
The workshop successfully met its primary goals by enhancing collaboration among law enforcement, prosecutors, judges, and financial intelligence units. Participants left with a deeper understanding of trafficking and smuggling networks and the essential tools for conducting intelligence-led investigations and prosecutions across borders. The discussions not only aligned national efforts with broader IGAD frameworks but also contributed to developing coordinated strategies to tackle the interconnected issues of trafficking, smuggling, organized crime, and illicit trade.
The outcomes of this workshop represent a significant step in fostering closer collaboration between Ethiopia and Uganda, enabling them to better address human trafficking, migrant smuggling, and associated security threats. These efforts will contribute to the wider IGAD regional initiative aimed at promoting coordinated, intelligence-driven responses to transnational crime.
Conclusion
The IGAD workshop in Entebbe has set a vital foundation for enhanced regional cooperation in the fight against human trafficking and other transnational threats. Supported by the European Union through the African Union Peace and Security Architecture, these collaborative efforts are essential in ensuring the safety and security of communities across East Africa.
For more information on IGAD’s initiatives and further resources on combating human trafficking, visit IGAD’s official website.
