The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) Day was commemorated in The Gambia on Tuesday, May 28, 2024. The event marked the 49th anniversary of the regional organization and gathered government officials, diplomats, civil society representatives, and citizens to reflect on ECOWAS's achievements and future prospects.
The celebration aimed to honor its founding on May 28, 1975, in Lagos, Nigeria. It also served as a platform to highlight ECOWAS's accomplishments and ongoing efforts towards regional integration and development. Held at the Kairaba Beach Hotel in Senegambia, the event was attended by Her Excellency Miatta Lily French, Resident Representative of the President of ECOWAS Commission and Head of Mission (ECOMIG), along with other dignitaries including diplomats and government officials. The theme for this year’s celebration was “Enhancing Regional Unity, Peace and Security.”
In his keynote address delivered by Mrs. Ndey Tabara Touray, Director of Regional Integration – ECOWAS National Office, Hon Baboucarr Ousmaila Joof emphasized enhancing regional trade and economic integration in West Africa. He highlighted the impact of the African Continental Free Trade Area on boosting trade and advocated for eliminating trade barriers to increase global competitiveness. Joof also discussed the pilot project under the ECOWAS Regional Stabilization and Development Fund in The Gambia which focuses on sustainable development through economic opportunities and infrastructure development targeting youth and women.
Mr. Ebrima Tambajang, representing the Executive Director of ECOWAS Regional Competition Authority (ERCA), stressed initiatives for regional integration and economic development within ECOWAS. He reaffirmed ERCA’s commitment to fostering regional integration by enforcing competition laws while encouraging cooperation among member states to implement the ECOWAS Regional Competition Policy effectively.
The celebrations included a cultural dance showcase featuring performances from local traditional dance troupes symbolizing West Africa's rich cultural diversity. Various dishes prepared by Member States Embassies/Consulates were shared to display their culinary talents.
ECOWAS Day 2024 in The Gambia underscored unity and cooperation among West African nations. It highlighted collective strength and shared aspirations driving the region towards a more prosperous future aligned with ECOWAS Vision 2050. The Permanent Mission looks forward to commemorating ECOWAS's Golden Jubilee on May 28, 2025.
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