The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has reiterated its commitment to aiding vulnerable communities in member states impacted by disasters. This was affirmed by Dr. Sintiki Tarfa-Ugbe, Director of Humanitarian and Social Affairs, on behalf of the ECOWAS Commission's President and the Commissioner for Social Affairs and Human Development. The announcement followed a five-day technical mission to Cabo Verde, aimed at overseeing the implementation of ECOWAS's aid package for communities affected by the 2023 floods.
Dr. Tarfa-Ugbe emphasized that ECOWAS's support extends beyond immediate relief efforts. "Our goal is not only to respond to crises but to ensure that communities are equipped with the tools and resources necessary to recover and thrive," she stated. She highlighted that the allocation of $770,143 demonstrates ECOWAS’s dedication to sustainable solutions for disaster-affected populations in member states.
She also stressed the importance of collaboration with stakeholders in delivering effective humanitarian assistance, noting that partnerships with national and local entities are crucial for impactful interventions.
During the closing session of the monitoring mission, Mrs. Lídia Lima, Secretary of State for Social Inclusion in Cabo Verde, acknowledged ECOWAS’s support as essential to complementing Cabo Verde’s poverty eradication efforts.
Mr. Jean Francis Sempore, ECOWAS Interim Permanent Representative to Cabo Verde, remarked on ECOWAS’s diplomatic engagements and ongoing commitment to aligning its support with regional and national development policies.
The technical mission led by Dr. Tarfa-Ugbe was conducted from January 27 to January 31, 2025. It involved collaboration with Cabo Verde’s Ministry of Family, Inclusion, and Social Development along with local partners. The mission assessed progress in providing housing support for 80 families and livelihood assistance for 200 others out of a total of 560 families affected by the floods.
Alerts Sign-up