ECOWAS is strengthening its social protection systems through a five-day workshop in Abuja from September 16 to 20, 2024. The workshop, led by experts in collaboration with the TRANSFORM hub affiliated with the ILO, FAO, UNICEF, and the African WFP, aims to build a network of skilled social protection leaders across West Africa. It follows a system-strengthening approach to enhance the design and efficiency of social systems.
The workshop focuses on increasing the capacity of ECOWAS staff to implement the ECOWAS Social Protection Framework and its Operational Plan effectively while fostering collaboration among social protection actors within the region. It represents a critical step toward building inclusive social protection in West Africa, positioning ECOWAS to address broader socio-economic challenges.
The ongoing workshop comes less than a year after the landmark validation of the ECOWAS Social Protection Framework and its Operational Plan in November 2023. At that time, social protection experts and ministers from ECOWAS member states gathered to endorse the framework, marking a historic moment for the region. This document was later recommended to the ECOWAS Council of Ministers for adoption by social protection ministers. The Framework and its Operational Plan were subsequently adopted during the 92nd Session of the ECOWAS Council of Ministers.
The ECOWAS Social Protection Framework and its Operational Plan hold the potential to address some of the most pressing challenges facing member states in designing and implementing social protection programs. Notably, it aims to tackle critical issues such as financing, coverage gaps, and coordination—challenges that have long hindered the region’s ability to provide comprehensive social safety nets for its citizens.
In her opening remarks, Dr. Sintiki Tarfa–Ugbe represented by Dr. Daniel Amankwaah emphasized the vital role of improved social protection systems in Africa’s broader fight against poverty. She highlighted how strengthening these systems directly supports achieving Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 1, which aims to eradicate poverty in all its forms. Specifically, she noted that "the framework aligns with SDG target 1.3," which calls for establishing nationally appropriate social protection systems and measures for all, particularly for vulnerable groups.
Additionally, the training aligns with ECOWAS’s strategic objectives outlined in their 4×4 Strategic Objectives and Community Strategic Framework (Strategic Orientation 16). The Regional ECOWAS Social Protection Framework is a key element in realizing these goals.
Dr. Sintiki noted that improving coordination among stakeholders is essential for ensuring that "the framework delivers its intended impact." By empowering social protection leaders and reinforcing regional cooperation, she added that "ECOWAS is laying the groundwork for a more robust and inclusive social safety net across West Africa."
Mrs. Adebisi Arije praised "the ECOWAS Social Protection Framework as a strong sign of importance attached to Social Protection" and strengthening mechanisms including humanitarian settings. She emphasized that UN organizations consider this milestone significant and are willing to support full implementation.
The Introduction to Social Protection Systems (TRANSFORM) training workshop sets the stage for future progress, demonstrating ECOWAS’s commitment to creating a more secure and equitable future for West Africans.
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