The ECOWAS Commission, in collaboration with the German cooperation (GIZ), has initiated a women empowerment drive aimed at improving the accessibility and acceptability of the ECOWAS National Biometric Identity Card (ENBIC). This initiative seeks to facilitate mobility and trade within the Community by identifying women groups in border communities and issuing them with Regional Biometric Cards. The goal is to reduce harassment and ease mobility for vulnerable individuals at borders.
The pilot phase of this initiative took place in the Sene-Gambia Zone. During an engagement at the Mpack border between Senegal and Guinea-Bissau, Mr. Albert Siaw-Boateng, Director of Free Movement of Persons and Migration, represented Mrs. Massandje Toure-Litse, Commissioner for Economic Affairs and Agriculture. Mr. Siaw-Boateng emphasized the importance of strengthening intra-service cooperation among various security agencies at borders. He also highlighted the necessity for border operatives to implement decisions made by the Authority of ECOWAS Heads of State and Government concerning the abolition of the 90-day stay limitation and residence permit for Community Citizens.
Additionally, representatives from women groups within border communities were met to raise awareness about valid travel documents, address challenges faced by women at borders, and facilitate the issuance of ENBICs as a tool to improve their mobility and mitigate harassment.
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