Arba Minch (Ethiopia) - The International Organization for Migration (IOM) and Denmark's Ministry of Foreign Affairs launched the Climate Change and Migration Data Programme (CCMD) on 19 February, in Konso, South Ethiopia. The initiative, funded by Denmark, aims to strengthen evidence-based migration governance and reduce the risks of irregular migration and displacement caused by disasters, climate change, and environmental degradation.

The programme is part of a 31-month regional initiative covering 13 countries across North, East, and West Africa. Ethiopia will implement a 1.3 million USD climate resilience project as part of the programme. The project in Ethiopia will focus on two key areas: climate change and human mobility, and migration data and research.

A climate adaptation project will be piloted in the Gelebo and Belbea sites for relocated internally displaced persons in Konso, benefiting over 12,000 individuals from the relocated and surrounding communities. The initiative will enhance solar-powered water infrastructure and promote participatory natural resource management. It will also provide skills training and livelihood diversification to promote sustainable and environmentally friendly economic opportunities.

In parallel, a climate vulnerability assessment will be conducted in the Afar, Somali, and South regions to inform future policy and programme interventions. This initiative underscores Ethiopia’s commitment to addressing climate change impacts through evidence-based, community-driven solutions. It is also in line with the national durable solutions strategy for displaced and host communities.

The launch event brought together representatives from federal, regional, and local administrations, community members, and civil society organizations. It provided an opportunity to strengthen collaboration, enhance local ownership and explore resource mobilization for effective project implementation.

Prior to the launch, a field visit was organized with representatives from the Embassy of Denmark in Ethiopia to the Belbela site for relocated displaced persons. During the visit they engaged with the formerly displaced communities to gain first-hand insight into the impact of climate change on communities in Konso.

“Climate change is a common problem that drives migration, conflict, and inequality. Therefore, our cooperation to create sustainable solutions is crucial,” says Sebastian Lukas Bych, Head of Cooperation and Deputy Head of Mission at the Denmark Embassy in Ethiopia. “The Danish government has launched a new Africa Strategy focused on partnership, sustainable development, and stability. This strategy supports countries and communities on the frontlines of climate change.”

“This initiative highlights the importance of finding durable solutions to displacement. It serves as both a climate adaptation initiative and a collaboration effort between the community and government officials,” says Philippe Branchat, IOM Ethiopia Emergency and Post-Crisis Coordinator. “IOM and the Danish government will continue to support these efforts.”

Konso Zone faces compounded challenges from climate change and conflict. The area has endured frequent droughts, floods, landslides and erratic rainfall. A prolonged drought from 2019 to 2022 followed by unexpected heavy rainfall in 2023, have led to significant agricultural losses, affecting over 20,000 individuals. With the support of IOM and Denmark, this initiative aims to build climate resilience and provide sustainable solutions for communities affected by environmental and migration challenges.

For more information, please contact Aïssatou Sy, IOM Ethiopia Media and Communications Officer, aisy@iom.int