Makeni: The ECOWAS National Office at the Ministry of Planning and Economic Development (MoPED), in partnership with the ECOWAS Resident Office, has initiated a regional sensitization tour in Sierra Leone’s North East and North West regions to celebrate ECOWAS’ 50th Anniversary.
According to Sierra Leone News Agency, the engagements, which took place at the Bambali District Council in Makeni and the Provincial Secretary’s Office in Port Loko, aimed to enhance public understanding of ECOWAS’ history, vision, and its development efforts in Sierra Leone.
Paramount Chief Bai Makari N’Kolo II of Bambali District welcomed the delegation, expressing gratitude to MoPED and ECOWAS for bringing the initiative to the region. He highlighted the significance of collaboration between traditional authorities and regional institutions for peace and sustainable development.
In his keynote address, Deputy Minister of Planning and Economic Development, Rev. Dr. Jonathan Titus-Williams, emphasized ECOWAS’ pivotal role in Sierra Leone’s advancement through its contributions to peace and security, regional trade, and youth and women empowerment. He reiterated the government’s dedication to aligning Sierra Leone’s national development agenda with ECOWAS Vision 2050 and the African Union’s Agenda 2063.
H.E. Ambassador John Azumah, ECOWAS Resident Representative in Sierra Leone, praised President Julius Maada Bio for his leadership as the current Chairman of ECOWAS. He acknowledged ECOWAS’ significant achievements in promoting peace and cooperation among member states, including its historic role in restoring peace to Sierra Leone.
Ambassador Azumah emphasized ECOWAS’ ongoing support for Sierra Leone and called for continued collaboration to tackle challenges such as border issues and security threats. He also highlighted key programs like the ECOWAS Volunteer Programme aimed at empowering youth.
Presentations by Dr. Francis Kposowa, Deputy Development Secretary, and Mr. Komba Momoh, Head of the ECOWAS National Office, focused on ECOWAS’ history, trade protocols, and current projects in Sierra Leone, including the construction of a logistics depot at Lungi.
Participants from various sectors shared their views on regional cooperation and governance. Madam Fatmata Osman Kuyateh, Vice Chairperson of the National Head Teachers Council in Bambali, urged ECOWAS to support initiatives addressing drug abuse among youth.
The engagements concluded with stakeholders pledging support for President Bio’s ECOWAS chairmanship and a commitment to advancing the organization’s vision for peace and prosperity in West Africa. A joint statement from traditional leaders, security agencies, and civil society organizations emphasized collaboration with ECOWAS for regional development.