The Permanent Representation of the ECOWAS Commission in Togo, alongside the Regional Agency for Agriculture and Food (ARAA), the ECOWAS Infrastructure Project Preparation and Development Unit (PPDU), and the ECOWAS Brown Card, celebrated the 49th anniversary of the institution on May 28, 2024, in Kara, northern Togo. The event was held under the theme “Strengthening Unity, Peace and Regional Security” and coincided with the University of Kara's 20th anniversary.
The ceremony saw participation from a wide range of entities including the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Regional Integration and Togolese Abroad, and the National Office of the ECOWAS Unit of the Ministry of Economy and Finance. Also present were regional political-administrative authorities such as governors, mayors, township chiefs, religious leaders, traditional authorities, directors from various state services like Agriculture, Trade, Local Government, Security, Transport Customs; representatives from private sector stakeholders; civil society groups; road transport unions; university staff; women's and youth organizations; media representatives; members from several West African countries; and ECOWAS staff in Togo.
The opening ceremony was chaired by Col. Bakali Hemou Badibawu, Governor of Kozah. HE Barros Bacar BANJAI, Resident Representative attended along with Professor KADOUZA Padabo representing the President of the University of Kara who delivered a welcome address. Mr. BA OURY from the Union of ECOWAS Nationals in Togo also spoke briefly.
HE Barros Bacar BANJAI emphasized that prosperity cannot be achieved without unity, peace, and security. He noted that this year's theme aligns with Vision 2050 titled “ECOWAS of the People: Peace and Prosperity for all.” He paid tribute to ECOWAS founding fathers General Gnassingbe Eyadema and General Yakubu GOWON while highlighting consistent missions since 1975: building an integrated community in a peaceful region with strong institutions supporting inclusive development.
“Whether in terms of regional economic integration (its initial mandate) or promoting peace,” he stated. “ECOWAS has significant achievements to show.” He pointed out progress made despite varied political and economic profiles among member states across a vast geographical area. He invited participants to engage in discussions around four themes:
- The ECOWAS economic agenda: regional economic integration
- The ECOWAS peace agenda: conflict prevention mechanisms
- Vision 2050: strategic objectives for peace and prosperity
- Human capital contributions: role of Kara University
He reassured attendees about ECOWAS’ commitment to addressing developmental challenges effectively.
Governor Badibawu welcomed relocating this commemoration to his region amidst current challenges faced by ECOWAS. He expressed hope for a better future through solidarity for sustainable development at grassroots levels.
The ceremony concluded with visits to exhibition stands from agencies such as RAAF; PPDU; ECOWAS Brown Card unit; as well as those from Kara University.
This anniversary celebration served as an opportunity for cultural exchange among West African nationals fostering fraternal communion towards shared prosperity within an integrated community framework.
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