The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) Sub-Committee of Chiefs of Naval Staff is convening in Praia, Cabo Verde, from February 25 to 27, 2025. The focus is on maritime security issues affecting the region.
Key discussions include the financial and operational aspects of the Yaoundé Architecture Regional Information System (YARIS), along with its functionality and ownership concerns. Staffing and information-sharing challenges between ECOWAS Maritime Coordination Centers and Member States’ National Maritime Operational Centers are also on the agenda. Reports from maritime coordination centers will be presented as well.
Participants include representatives from the ECOWAS Commission, ECOWAS Maritime Centres, Chiefs of Naval Staff of Member States, and their Heads of Operations.
Commander Armindo António da Graça of the Cabo Verde Navy and Coast Guard addressed the need for adaptability in combating maritime threats during the opening ceremony. “The threats we face are dynamic and constantly evolving, requiring flexible and innovative responses,” he stated.
He emphasized enhanced cooperation between national and international agencies through information sharing, joint operations, and a coordinated maritime security strategy to ensure safe waters for trade, tourism, and other economic activities.
Ambassador Abdel-Fatau Musah, PhD, Commissioner for Political Affairs, Peace, and Security of the ECOWAS Commission—represented by General Mactar Diop—highlighted strategic investments in securing the maritime domain as vital for regional social and economic development.
Dr. Miryan Djamila Sena Vieira, State Secretary for Foreign Affairs and Cooperation of Cape Verde, stressed coordinated actions against transnational organized crime. She noted that crimes such as drug trafficking, human trafficking, piracy, and terrorism are worsened by climate change and maritime pollution. Dr. Vieira called for complementary synergies both internally within countries and externally among nations to address these challenges effectively in areas like the Gulf of Guinea.
Alerts Sign-up