Accra: The next chapter of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) must be built on the foundation of past successes and consolidate the gains in the areas of peace and security. The leadership underscored the need for the West African bloc to deepen economic and political integration to engender growth and prosperity.
According to Ghana News Agency, at the launch of the 50th Anniversary of ECOWAS in Accra, President John Dramani Mahama, joined by other leaders within the sub-region, unveiled the ECOWAS@50 Logo and theme for the year-long celebrations across member states. The theme for the Golden Jubilee is: 'Stronger Together, For a Brighter Future'. It highlights the power of unity, regional cooperation, shared commitment, and foundation for building a prosperous and sustainable future for the citizens within the Community.
Mr. Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, Ghana's Minister of Foreign Affairs, stated that the 50th anniversary milestone offers an opportunity to reflect on the challenges, progress, and sacrifices of those who envisioned the Community. He emphasized the importance of reaffirming the unwavering commitment to the ideals of the founding fathers, noting the remarkable strides ECOWAS has made over the past five decades in advancing the collective aspirations of West Africans. Mr. Ablakwa called for concerted efforts by leadership and key institutions to foster inclusive growth to benefit every citizen of the bloc.
Mr. Ablakwa explained that the funding for the ECOWAS 50th Anniversary was borne by member states, ensuring that the Ghanaian taxpayer was not saddled with the cost of the event. He commended the Planning Committee for its teamwork and sacrifices towards the celebration and urged delegates to actively participate in the launch activities to chart the way forward for the regional bloc.
The Economic Community of West African States was formed on May 28, 1975, in Lagos after West African leaders signed the Lagos Treaty for economic and political cooperation towards advancing their collective growth and prosperity. Some high-profile personalities present at the launch included former President of Ghana, Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, President of Liberia, Joseph Boakai, and Vice President of The Gambia, Muhammad B.S. Jallow. Other notable attendees were President of ECOWAS Commission, Dr. Oumar Alien Touray, and Vice President of ECOWAS Commission, Damtien Tchintchibidja.
As part of the launch, ministers of Foreign Affairs and Finance within the Community will hold an extraordinary meeting of the Council of Ministers to deliberate on the withdrawal of Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger from the West African bloc to form the Alliance of Sahelian States. The meeting will enable the Council to properly brief the Authority of Heads of State and Government of ECOWAS during their next Summit.