The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has launched four major initiatives valued at around €110 million, designed to enhance regional peace and stability, facilitate institutional reforms, and boost trade within the sub-region.
These projects, funded by the European Union (€82.5 million), Germany (€26 million), and other partners, are part of the ECOWAS Peace, Security and Governance Project (EPSG). They aim to support the ECOWAS Commission in implementing the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) and the Trade in Services Programme.
ECOWAS Commission President, Alieu Touray, stated that these initiatives align with the community’s strategic goals of reinforcing peace, security, and sustainable trade, emphasising the need for approximately $300 million to fully implement its five-year peace strategy.
Touray also acknowledged the ongoing engagement with nations reconsidering their membership, affirming that existing agreements on trade and movement will remain in effect until new arrangements are established.
German Ambassador to Nigeria, Ms. Annett Günther, and EU Ambassador Gautier Mignot both underscored the significance of these projects in fostering regional cooperation and economic integration, highlighting their potential for transforming West Africa into a stable and prosperous region.
