Africa’s private sector steps up to address internal displacement crisis

The numbers are staggering. In Africa alone, nearly 35 million people have been internally displaced, accounting for a staggering 46% of the world’s displaced population.

This crisis, fueled by conflict, climate change, and poverty, has left millions of Africans without homes, livelihoods, or hope

This widespread displacement places immense strain on already challenged services and affects local economies, leading to increased vulnerability for displaced populations, as well as the communities hosting them.

With strategic investment in innovative initiatives and impactful partnerships, the private sector can play a vital role in building strong economies and communities, supporting people to live with greater security, dignity, and hope for the future.

On 28 and 29 November 2024, the International Organization for Migration (IOM) joined the UNHCR and UNDP in convening the roundtable “Bridging Futures: 2024 Africa Roundtable on Private Sector Solutions to Internal Displacement” in Lagos, Nigeria.

The 2-day event called on the private sector to help build sustainable solutions for people who have been forcibly displaced by conflict and climate-related disasters.

“Through investment, innovation, and economic activities, we can unlock the potential of people who have been internally displaced to stimulate economies, enhance market linkages, and create jobs, benefiting both local companies, displaced communities, and their hosts”, said IOM Deputy Director General for Operations, Ms. Ugochi Daniels, during the event.

Bringing together government representatives, humanitarian and development partners, private sector actors, and civil society organizations, the Africa Roundtable strengthened ongoing efforts to develop markets across the continent, in regions affected by internal displacement.

Among the key takeaways from the conference, the participants noted the need to move beyond immediate aid and invest in infrastructure, skills, and the economic integration of IDPs to empower them to become socioeconomically independent. This can be achieved by implementing data-driven approaches to design impactful investments and tailored support that enable displaced persons to live with dignity.