AUC, ECA launch joint project to tackle migration narrative, barriers in Africa

Addis Ababa, May 31, 2023 (FBC) – The United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (ECA) and the African Union Commission (AUC) have launched a joint project aimed at shaping a positive narrative and eliminating barriers to safe international migration within Africa.

The project, entitled ‘International Migration in Africa: Shaping a Positive Narrative and Removing Barriers to Mobility’, has received USD $2.5 million in funding from Italy’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation.

Leveraging the institutional strengths of both ECA and AUC, the project will focus on six key thematic areas to address migration challenges in Africa:

The project was officially unveiled during a ceremony held at ECA’s headquarters in Addis Ababa.

The ceremony was attended by Ms. Hanan Morsy, Deputy Executive Secretary and Chief Economist at ECA, Ambassador Minata Samate Cessouma, the AUC’s Commissioner for Health, Humanitarian Affairs and Social Development and Ambassador Alberto Bertini, representing the Italian Delegation to the AU and ECA.

The two-year project will encompass a range of interventions, including improved data collection, enhanced research capacity, and strengthened policymaking on legal migration. It aims to raise awareness about the benefits of migration while preventing negative outcomes associated with it.