The Migration, Urbanization, and Conflict in Africa (MUCA) project concluded its three-year research initiative with a focus on practical solutions. It examined the link between migration, urbanization, and conflict in nine Ethiopian, Nigerian, and Ugandan cities of Africa.

Goodwill message by Dr. Fana Gebresenbet, the Principal Investigator at MUCA emphasized the importance of the work being done and the potential impact it could have on urbanization and migration issues in African cities.

Dr. Joseph Ochogwu, Director General of the Institute for Peace and Conflict Resolution (IPCR), praised the research team’s holistic approach. He emphasized the interconnectedness of the issues and how their work deepens understanding of conflict dynamics in African cities. This, he believes, strengthens the call for collaboration towards peaceful and sustainable urban futures.

Hon. Kwamoti Bitrus Laori, Chairman of the House Committee on Cooperation and Integration in Africa, also participated. He highlighted the urgency of addressing rapid urbanization and pledged the Committee’s support for policies tackling migration, urbanization, and conflict challenges. He stressed the importance of MUCA’s evidence-based research, which helps bridge a critical knowledge gap.

Prof. Taibat Lawanson provided an overview of the MUCA project, highlighting the project’s objectives, methodologies, and outcomes. She called on the stakeholder present to lend their voices, ideas, and expertise to address the issues the project has found.

The project offers valuable insights and practical recommendations. It proposes leveraging existing strengths and successful local conflict resolution practices, both traditional and non-traditional. This roadmap can guide policymakers in fostering peaceful and sustainable urban futures across Africa.

The closing session drew a diverse crowd, including representatives from security agencies, NGOs, policymakers, research institutes, and academics from various disciplines.