About
A regional institute for migration, displacement and human mobility
Connecting universities, governments, civil society, development partners, diaspora communities and young people around credible migration evidence.
The opportunity
Why HAIM exists
Horn of Africa Institute for Migration, Displacement and Human Mobility (HAIM) is a research, training and knowledge institution dedicated to advancing understanding of migration across the Horn of Africa in the areas of migration and displacement.
The Institute connects universities, researchers, government institutions, civil society, development partners, diaspora communities and young people to generate evidence, build professional capacity and promote safe, informed and dignified migration decisions.
Vision and mission
Vision
A region where migration is understood and governed through reliable evidence, informed policies, regional cooperation and respect for human dignity.
Mission
To become a leading regional institute for migration research, education, public awareness, professional training and policy engagement, with specialized expertise in the Horn of Africa migration.
How we work
Guiding approach
- Evidence-led
- Regionally connected
- Youth-focused
- Rights-based
- Academically credible
- Practically relevant
Accountability
Governance
HAIM operates with a clear institutional, advisory structure and academic leadership arrangement that safeguard credibility, quality assurance and accountability. Its governance model defines decision-making roles, research ethics oversight, partnership approval processes and mechanisms for inclusive regional representation.
Context
What is at stake
Migration is one of the most important social, economic, humanitarian and development issues affecting the wider Horn of Africa. Conflict, insecurity, unemployment, climate shocks, education, family ties and economic opportunity all influence mobility.
Migration can contribute to development, but irregular and unsafe routes may expose people, especially young people, to trafficking, exploitation, violence, detention, disappearance and death.
Reliable, locally generated migration research and data remain limited.
Public information on irregular migration risks and lawful alternatives needs to be expanded.
Institutions require stronger skills, evidence and platforms for coordinated policy dialogue.
Migrant, returnee, displaced and diaspora voices need to be better reflected in research and policy.
Conflict, political instability and weak protection systems continue to uproot families, separate communities and increase dependency on humanitarian assistance.
Climate shocks, droughts, floods and resource competition are disrupting livelihoods, intensifying internal displacement and increasing pressure on fragile urban centres.
Unsafe journeys across land and sea expose migrants to extortion, abuse, arbitrary detention, family separation, health risks and loss of life.
Host communities, border towns and transit hubs face increased demand for housing, water, health care, education, jobs and social services.
Women, children, youth, persons with disabilities and separated families require stronger protection, psychosocial support and access to basic services.
Work with HAIM
HAIM welcomes partnership on applied research, curriculum development, joint training, data systems, community outreach and regional learning.