As part of the 50th-anniversary celebrations of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), a series of workshops were organized by the ECOWAS Resident Representation in Benin. These events took place from April 22 to May 2, 2025, at CEG 1 Godomey and Collège Saint Romaric in Akassato.
During these three-day sessions, students engaged in discussions and reflections that led to the creation of artistic works. The themes included health, education, agriculture, peace, unity, security, free movement, and their vision for ECOWAS’s future. The workshops highlighted the talents of young participants who expressed strong messages about a united and prosperous West Africa.
Restitution sessions on April 25 at CEG 1 Godomey and May 12 at Collège Saint Romaric showcased creations filled with meaning and emotion. These works reflect the hope of youth committed to building a shared future.
The public will have an opportunity to view these creations during an official vernissage on May 30, 2025. This event will be held in the gardens of Novotel in Cotonou alongside ECOWAS’s anniversary ceremony co-organized with Benin’s government. Additionally, they will be displayed at “The Golden Jubilee Village” regional event scheduled for September 2025.
This initiative underscores ECOWAS Resident Representation in Benin’s dedication to civic education and active youth participation in regional integration processes. It aligns with ECOWAS’s Vision 2050 to transition from an “ECOWAS of States” to an “ECOWAS of Peoples.”
“These young individuals remind us, through their creativity and commitment, that the future of West Africa is being written today. It is our responsibility to support them, listen to them, and provide them with the means to become the builders of tomorrow.”
Technical support for this activity was provided by Ateliers Sika, known for its expertise in artistic and cultural creation.