IOM’s New Director General Visits Kenya as Part of Her Inaugural Trip

Nairobi – Amy E Pope, the newly elected Director-General of International Organization for Migration (IOM), UN Migration, concluded her two-day inaugural visit to Kenya on 14 October 2023, as the Head of the Agency.

While in Kenya (from 12 to 14 October 2023), DG-Pope met with H.E. Dr. William Ruto, the President of the Republic of Kenya, and other senior government officials, donors, diplomats, and heads of UN agencies to strengthen partnerships; advocate for protection of migrants; and reiterate the Organisation’s priorities during her term. In addition, she engaged with IOM staff in Kenya and interacted with beneficiaries of the Canadian Orientation Abroad.

Moreover, DG Pope launched Kenya’s National Implementation Plan for the Global Compact for Migration (GCM) for Safe, Orderly and Regular Migration, the first of its kind globally, developed with the support of the GCM Capacity Building Mechanism. As the first African country to join IOM as a Member State in 1985, Kenya continues its commitment towards addressing the adverse drivers of migration and leveraging migration as an opportunity for the country’s socio-economic development.

Kenya is home to over one million migrants and half a million registered refugees. A large majority of these migrants and refugees are severely affected by climate, conflicts, and economic hardships.

“DG Pope’s inaugural visit to Kenya was a testament to IOM’s commitment and dedication to work with the Government of Kenya in addressing migration related challenges, including mitigation and adaptation of climate vulnerable communities” says Ms. Dimanche Sharon, Chief of Mission of IOM Kenya.

For more information, please contact Cynthia Meru, National Communications Officer, IOM Kenya, cmeru@iom.int