ECOWAS trains experts to tackle climate change at Abuja workshop

The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) is organizing a Sectoral Thematic Workshop on Climate Change and the Environment 2024 from June 3 to 5 in Abuja, Nigeria. Organized by the ECOWAS Early Warning Directorate, the workshop aims to facilitate knowledge exchange among analysts from Member States and equip them with advanced analytical skills to develop effective strategies against environmental degradation and climate change.

In her opening speech, Acting Director of the ECOWAS Early Warning Directorate, Dr. Onyinye Onwuka, welcomed participants and emphasized the key role of the ECOWAS Early Warning System (EWS) in strengthening peace and stability through robust data collection, analysis, and alert communication mechanisms.

Recognizing the multifaceted challenges posed by climate change and environmental degradation, participants will engage in discussions aimed at identifying vulnerabilities and proposing effective mitigation and adaptation strategies. The workshop will also provide a platform for analyzing existing environmental policies and regional dynamics to halt environmental degradation and mitigate potential catastrophes.

Dr. Onyinye Onwuka expressed confidence in the debates and expected results of the three-day event. “The participation of esteemed analysts, sister directorates, and experts will facilitate knowledge and experience sharing, strengthening coordination between regional and national actors in ensuring peace and stability in West Africa.”

Alice Kola-Solomon, Programme Officer of the Early Warning Directorate’s office, reiterated that the seminar is expected to include a deeper understanding of the interconnected nature of climate change, food security, insecurity, terrorism, transhumance conflict, and illegal mining.

Emphasis is being placed on stakeholder involvement and adopting sustainable evidence-based recommendations to address climate challenges comprehensively.

It is recalled that the ECOWAS Early Warning System (EWS), under the Office of the Vice President of the Commission based on Article 8 of the Revised ECOWAS Treaty of 1993 and the 1999 Conflict Prevention Mechanism includes 77 field monitors, regional staff partnerships with National Coordination Centres for Response Mechanisms (NCCRMs), and the West Africa Network of Peacebuilders (WANEP).