ECOWAS strengthens post-conflict demining center with new vehicle and equipment

The ECOWAS Resident Representative in Benin, Ambassador Amadou DIONGUE, presented a vehicle and demining equipment to the Post-Conflict Demining and Pollution Control Training Centre (CPADD) on October 30, 2024. The ceremony took place at the ECOWAS Representation Office in Benin with several dignitaries in attendance. Among them were Colonel Dominique MIGNODO, representing the Chief of General Staff of the Beninese Armed Forces; His Excellency Mr. Stefan BUCHWALD, Ambassador of Germany to Benin; and Mr. Franck VAN DER MUEREN from the European Union Delegation.

This donation is part of the EPSAO project, which supports ECOWAS Peace and Security Architecture and Operations by providing material aid to CPADD. The center is recognized as Africa's only Francophone institution specializing in humanitarian demining. This support aims to help CPADD tackle increasing challenges, especially with rising terrorist threats along the Gulf of Guinea's coastal states.

Ambassador Amadou DIONGUE stressed ECOWAS's strategic partnership with CPADD since its founding in 2003. He also thanked partners like Germany and the European Union for their continuous efforts to bolster CPADD's reputation as a peace and security contributor both locally and regionally.

His Excellency Mr. Stefan BUCHWALD noted that cooperation between CPADD, ECOWAS, and Germany exemplifies regional stability collaboration.

Mr. Franck VAN DER MUEREN expressed gratitude towards ECOWAS for their dedication to maintaining peace through this support.

Colonel Dominique MIGNODO acknowledged ECOWAS and GIZ for their unwavering support to CPADD. He emphasized that these resources would enhance training activities at CPADD, preparing operators to manage modern threats such as explosive remnants effectively.