The Paradox of Policy: Regional Cooperation and Climate Governance in the IGAD Region – A Case Study of Ethiopia and Kenya

Climate change presents complex, cross-border challenges that transcend national boundaries, creating severe socio-economic and environmental vulnerabilities in the Horn of Africa. This study investigates the influence of regional cooperation on climate governance within the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) framework, focusing on Ethiopia and Kenya. Employing a mixed-methods approach comprising quantitative surveys of 100 experts, qualitative interviews with 24 key informants, and document analysis, the research reveals a significant "paradox of policy. While IGAD has established robust regulatory frameworks viewed by 80% of stakeholders as a strong foundation, there remains a profound disconnect in national-level implementation. Survey results indicate a unanimous (100%) perception of ineffective coordination between national and regional policies. However, bilateral cooperation between Ethiopia and Kenya serves as a successful outlier, driven by tangible necessity rather than abstract policy. The study concludes that meaningful progress requires a strategic shift from policy design to operational implementation, sustainable financing, and the strengthening of enforcement mechanisms.