The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Regional Integration has emphasized the critical need for unity among members of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) to safeguard the region's security and economic stability.
Ambassador Mrs Perpetua O. Dufu, the Coordinating Director for Multilateral and International Organization of the Ministry, stressed the importance of ECOWAS persevering to maintain peace and security as fundamental prerequisites for development and prosperity.
Speaking at a sensitization workshop for students and youth on ECOWAS protocols and the Community's Youth Policy in Cape Coast, Ambassador Dufu highlighted recent challenges to ECOWAS' credibility, including the withdrawal of Niger, Mali, and Burkina Faso from ECOWAS to join the Alliance of Sahel States, as well as the postponement of Senegal's presidential election.
“The recent surge in military coups and the subsequent withdrawal of these member States from ECOWAS were also threatening the peace and stability of the Sub-region and jeopardizing the potential of the Community,” Ambassador Dufu stated.
Addressing over 500 participants from various sectors, including National Service personnel, teachers, nurses, chiefs, students from secondary and tertiary institutions, and youth clubs, Ambassador Dufu underscored the significance of ECOWAS' youth policy in promoting youth participation in decision-making processes.
She reaffirmed ECOWAS' importance as a symbol and tool for security, emphasizing benefits such as the free movement of people and goods across borders, expanded market access, and good governance within member states.
Ambassador Dufu pledged the Ministry's continued collaboration with all ECOWAS member states to address ongoing challenges, emphasizing Ghana's commitment to standing as a pillar of stability to prevent any destabilizing effects.
Mrs. Justina Marigold Assan, the Central Regional Minister, echoed the call for urgent actions to address lingering challenges within ECOWAS, acknowledging the organization's achievements in security and development while urging practical measures to restore stability and glory.
In concluding remarks, Ambassador Dufu encouraged youth to learn multiple international languages, particularly French, to enhance their opportunities for working with international institutions and urged them to strive to maintain leadership positions within ECOWAS.
The Ministry's message resonated with a call for solidarity and proactive measures to ensure ECOWAS' continued effectiveness in promoting regional security and prosperity.
