ECOWAS signs two cooperation agreements to promote agriculture and peace in West Africa
Written by: Ayman Ragab
The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) Commission signed two strategic cooperation agreements with the International Fertilizer Development Centre (IFDC) and the Mano River Union (MRU), on the sidelines of the group’s semi-annual meetings held in Freetown, the capital of Sierra Leone.
Participation of 12 heads of state and government
The 69th summit of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) kicked off with the participation of 12 heads of state and government from member countries, in the city of Lungi, near the Sierra Leonean capital, Freetown.
Radio France Internationale reported on Sunday that the appointment of the Commission President is expected to be announced soon, with General Birame Diop, the former Senegalese Minister of Defense, being the leading candidate for the position.
After a week of preparatory meetings, the summit is expected to discuss and issue political decisions on a number of key issues, most notably regional security, democratic governance, and strengthening economic integration among the countries of the region.
A moment when ECOWAS redefines its role
For his part, Sierra Leonean political analyst Melvin Mansaray said the summit primarily represents “a moment in which ECOWAS redefines its role,” noting that the organization has faced major challenges in recent years, including insecurity, military coups, and a weak path toward regional integration.
Amid escalating threats from armed groups, the leaders of the group's member states are discussing ways to strengthen regional security cooperation. Among the proposals is the creation of an ECOWAS force whose mission is not limited to peacekeeping, but which has the ability to enforce it when necessary during times of crisis.
The heads of state are also discussing a strategy to strengthen relations with the Sahel Alliance (ESA) countries, namely Mali, Niger and Burkina Faso, in a move expected to be put forward by the President of Sierra Leone, the current chairman of the Economic Community of West African States.
