A delegation from the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) participated in the 10th Rebranding Africa Forum held in Brussels, Belgium, from October 17 to 19, 2024. The forum focused on the theme "Building Africa Together," aiming to encourage collaboration among Africa's political and economic players for a prosperous future.
Representing ECOWAS at this significant event were H.E. Mrs. Damtien Tchintchibidja, Vice-President of the ECOWAS Commission, and Commissioner Massandjé Toure-Litse. The discussions centered on creating an integrated and peaceful Africa that guarantees access to healthcare and social services while asserting itself as a dynamic global force.
ECOWAS participated in several panels during the forum, including one titled "Building Africa Together – The Africa We Want." In her address, Vice-President Tchintchibidja highlighted ECOWAS's achievements such as facilitating free movement of people and goods, business liberalization within the region, and developing a regional electricity market through the West African Power Pool. She also emphasized investments in human capital development focusing on youth and women, along with initiatives like the food reserve by the Regional Agriculture and Food Agency (ARAA), humanitarian support for member states, and renewable energy projects.
The panel also featured Ms. Diéné Keita from the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), Mr. Serge Ekué of the West African Development Bank (BOAD), and Mr. Sidi Ould Tah from the Arab Bank for Economic Development in Africa (BADEA).
On October 19, Commissioner Massandjé Toure-Litse addressed agribusiness development within ECOWAS at another session of the forum. She discussed efforts to support member states and regional stakeholders in building resilient agribusiness systems and inclusive value chains under policies like ECOWAP (regional agricultural policy), industrial policy, and trade policy.
Commissioner Toure-Litse noted that these measures aim to ensure food security and sovereignty while promoting rewarding jobs for youth and women. They also seek to enhance regional integration into international markets.
The forum concluded with an introduction to next year's theme: "The challenges of artificial intelligence for Africa," followed by master classes and an awards ceremony.
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