The city of Assomada in Cabo Verde hosted the ECOWAS Fair on November 21, an event organized by the ECOWAS Representation in Cabo Verde. The fair was held in partnership with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Cooperation and Regional Integration, the Municipality of Santa Catarina, and the Cabo Verdean Association for the Fight Against Gender-Based Violence (ACLCVBG). This initiative was part of a series of activities marking the 50th anniversary of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS).
The fair took place along Assomada’s Pedestrian Street and aimed to connect local residents with West African culture, food, and traditions. It sought to reinforce ECOWAS’ goal of uniting people across the region while promoting solidarity and regional cooperation. Attendees experienced cultural exhibitions, sampled traditional West African dishes, and watched performances from artists representing Guinea-Bissau and Sierra Leone.
A key feature of the event was “Get to Know ECOWAS,” an activity designed for secondary-school students. This component included presentations and interactive sessions intended to educate students about ECOWAS and its role in regional integration. Teachers participated alongside students from various schools and grade levels.
In closing remarks, representatives from local government bodies and ECOWAS stressed the value of regional integration, cultural exchange, and community building. They reiterated their commitment to fostering a united West Africa.
Cabo Verde hosts several important ECOWAS institutions such as its country representation office, the Centre for Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency (ECREEE), the Multinational Maritime Coordination Center (MMCC), and an ECOWAS Office within its Ministry of Foreign Affairs. These organizations contribute to ongoing efforts around sustainable development, security coordination, and deeper regional integration.