Story by Iyiola Ayomide
Lomé, Togo – Rt. Hon. Memounatou Ibrahima, Speaker of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) Parliament, has issued a strong call for immediate reforms within the regional bloc to address the escalating crises in West Africa.
Addressing the opening ceremony of the 2024 Third Extra-Ordinary Session and Second Parliamentary Seminar in Lomé, Togo, Ibrahima emphasised the critical need for action, stating: “Our region has been ravaged by floods, terrorism, violent extremism, and irregular migration, which have affected thousands of our citizens.
“ECOWAS, at 50 years old, must accelerate reforms to consolidate democratic and good governance principles to carry out the founding fathers’ vision.”
The Speaker emphasised the importance of budgetary provisions in addressing these pressing issues, stating that the session’s primary goal would be to secure financial resources to address the region’s challenges.
She also praised Togolese President Faure Gnassingbe’s unwavering support for regional integration and women’s empowerment, citing her rise to the speakership as evidence of his dedication to promoting female leadership.
The session will include critical discussions and decision-making on the following topics:
- Budget 2025-2027: The ECOWAS Parliament will develop a clear financial roadmap for “pragmatic measures” to promote peace, stability, solidarity, and progress in West Africa.
- Budget Implementation Review: The parliament will evaluate the implementation of its 2023 budget and the mid-term budget for the fiscal year 2024 to ensure alignment with regional development goals.
- Empowering Women through Financial Inclusion: ECOFEPA, the ECOWAS Female Parliamentarians Association, will host a symposium aimed at increasing opportunities for women through financial services and promoting economic empowerment.
Dr. George Agyekum Donkor, President of the ECOWAS Bank for Investment and Development (EBID), emphasised the importance of improving infrastructure and investment priorities to unlock the region’s potential and boost member countries’ competitiveness.
He emphasised the importance of ensuring that all citizens have equal economic opportunities.
Meanwhile, Togo’s Minister of Human Rights, Barrister Pacome Yawovi Missiame Amenyo Adjourouvi, expressed deep concern about the human rights situation in West Africa, citing repressive governments that restrict free speech and protests.
He emphasised the importance of human rights protection in ensuring peace and prosperity for all citizens and urged the implementation of the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights and gender equality to advance the regional bloc’s goals.
Sevon-Tepe Kodjo Adedze, Speaker of the Togolese National Assembly, emphasised the critical need for increased developmental progress and budgetary provisions to improve the community.
He emphasised the importance of incorporating social inclusion, economic integration, peace, stability, harmony, and prosperity into the “ECOWAS Vision 2050,” which is consistent with President Gnassingbe’s principles.
The ECOWAS Parliament’s urgent call for reforms reflects the increasing need for decisive action to address West Africa’s complex and interconnected crises.
The emphasis on budgetary provisions, human rights protection, and women’s empowerment demonstrates a commitment to promoting regional peace, stability, and sustainable development through a multifaceted approach.
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