Since the establishment of the ECOWAS Integrated Maritime Strategy (EIMS) in 2014, the operationalization of the ECOWAS Maritime Coordination Centres (EMCCs) across maritime zones E, F, and G, as well as the West Africa Regional Maritime Coordination Centre (CRESMAO), has significantly contributed to reducing piracy and sea robbery incidents in the ECOWAS Maritime Domain (EMD). Despite these successes, the EMCCs face challenges that undermine their efficiency, such as unclear status, staffing issues, and funding constraints. As part of efforts to accelerate proper operationalization of the Maritime Centres, the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) Commission organized an interdepartmental meeting from July 15 to 18, 2024, in Accra, Ghana.
The meeting aimed to review and streamline the structure of the EMCCs to ensure their effective functioning and sustainability. Representatives from various ECOWAS Departments and Directorates attended, along with members from the ECOWAS Parliament, the ECOWAS Court of Justice, and ECOWAS Maritime Coordination Centres.
During the opening ceremony, Commissioner for Political Affairs, Peace and Security Ambassador Abdel-Fatau Musah underscored the importance of maritime security in West Africa. He noted that "the region currently has four key zones which if properly managed could help with prosperity for all in accordance with the ECOWAS Agenda 2050: ECOWAS of the people, Peace and Prosperity for all."
The Director for MMCC Zone F was represented by Deputy Director Lt Cdr Edem Akati. He emphasized "the importance of structural and technical reform of the Maritime Centres as a testament to enhancing maritime safety and security in the ECOWAS Maritime domain."
In his opening remarks, UNODC Representative M. Abbas Daher highlighted "the importance of this milestone in continuing engagement with ECOWAS with the aim of funding practical and innovative solutions towards ensuring maritime security" to foster economic prosperity within ECOWAS States.
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