New funding has been granted by Sida, to the Inclusive Green Economy (IGE) program. The two-year inception period of the program was concluded by December 2022. The new agreement means that EfD can expand and deepen the collaboration and provide more support to the participants and organizations in the program for at least five more years.
“The IGE program aligns perfectly with Sida’s priorities, which are poverty mitigation, economic development, environment, and climate,” says Arto Immonen, Senior Program Manager at Sida.
In the new agreement, Sida supports the IGE program with 75 million Swedish Crowns (about $ 7.5 million) over five years.
Will level up efforts
“This is very gratifying because it means that we can level up our efforts, strengthen the collaboration with the organizations we work with, and promote real long-term impacts,” says Anders Ekbom, Program leader.
The IGE program is aimed at senior civil servants in Ethiopia, Kenya, Rwanda, Tanzania, and Uganda. EfD Global Hub at the University of Gothenburg collaborates with EfD Centers in the participating countries and its global network in this program.
Connects policymakers with researchers
The program is a combination of training, technical advice, practical work, and peer learning among the civil servants that participate in the program, so-called IGE Fellows. In addition, the researchers in the region, who are involved in the program, also gain more insights into the realities of strategic planning and policymaking in governments, which develops capacities on many levels.
“It’s a unique program in the way it connects civil servants with local researchers in environmental economics to improve the economic tools and policies to achieve a transition to a green economy,” remarks Arto Immonen.
Inclusiveness is important
He also underlines the importance of considering the interest of many different stakeholders while implementing new policies. Especially the needs of the poor and vulnerable must be taken into account. The focus on “inclusive” while promoting greener economies is one of the reasons why Sida finds this program particularly important.
Longterm undertaking
The two-year inception period of the program has already gained visible results. Initiatives from the IGE Fellows have contributed to the development of new policies and practices. For example, the National Development Plan 2023-27 for Kenya includes initiatives from IGE Fellows. And the new policy that exempts electric vehicles from tax in Ethiopia was also to a great extent the work of an IGE Fellow.
“The results we have seen so far are very good. But a green transition is not something you achieve in 2-3 years' time. It’s a very long-term undertaking,” says Arto Immonen.
By: Petra Hansson
Facts
Inclusive Green Economy in Practice is a capacity development program for civil servants in East Africa on economic policy instruments for achieving just green transition. It bridges the gap between research and policymakers to promote evidence-based policies.
Sida is Sweden's government agency for development cooperation. They strive to reduce poverty and oppression around the world. In cooperation with organizations, government agencies, civil society, and the private sector they invest in sustainable development for all people.