The ECOWAS Commission has reiterated its commitment to supporting businesses and promoting regional integration by participating in the second edition of the ECOWAS Small Business Coalition (ESBC) Trade Fair. The event took place in Abidjan from November 21 to 23, 2024, co-organized by the ECOWAS Commission and the West African SME Coalition. This collaboration reflects a mutual goal to strengthen small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) throughout West Africa.
Leading the ECOWAS delegation was Mr. Anthony Elumelu, Acting Director of the Private Sector, representing Massandjé Touré-Litse, ECOWAS Commissioner for Economic Affairs and Agriculture, along with H.E. Ambassador Fanta Cissé, ECOWAS Resident Representative in Côte d’Ivoire. Representatives from all 15 West African Member States also attended.
The ESBC Trade Fair served as a platform for SMEs to collaborate, showcase their products, exchange ideas, and establish regional partnerships. It underscored the significance of cross-border trade and cooperation in fostering economic growth and regional integration.
Commissioner Touré-Litse addressed participants, emphasizing ECOWAS' dedication to regional businesses. She highlighted "the adoption of a framework for regional economic zones as a game-changer for economic growth, job creation, and deeper integration."
She further stated: “As we gather here today, we are reminded of the importance of regional integration in stimulating economic development. The African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) provides a unique opportunity for our region to enhance trade, investment, and cooperation. This fair is a crucial step in positioning our sub-region to thrive within the AfCFTA framework.”
The ECOWAS SME Charter guides SME growth in the region by prioritizing business education, regulatory improvements, regional collaborations, and enhanced financial support for SMEs. Collaborating with stakeholders such as FEBWE, FEWACCI, MAN, and FOPAO strengthens private-sector contributions to regional economic integration.
In partnership with the World Bank and its implementing agency International Finance Corporation (IFC), ECOWAS is developing a comprehensive framework for regional economic zones aimed at sustainable economic growth and job creation.
ECOWAS continues its mission to empower SMEs as key drivers of West Africa’s economic transformation through fostering collaboration across regions and enhancing regulatory frameworks.
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