The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) officially kicked off its 50th anniversary celebrations at a high-profile event held at the Accra International Conference Centre on Tuesday 22, May.
The ceremony marked the beginning of a year-long commemoration of the regional bloc’s five decades of promoting economic integration, peace, and cooperation across West Africa.
Delivering the keynote address, the President of the ECOWAS Commission, Dr. Omar Alieu Touray, highlighted the achievements and ongoing challenges facing the regional body. He took the opportunity to pay special tribute to the President of the Republic of Ghana, John Dramani Mahama, lauding him for his instrumental role in fostering dialogue aimed at restoring unity among member states.
“President Mahama’s leadership and diplomatic engagement have been critical in encouraging the return of the three former ECOWAS member states and supporting the formation of the Alliance of Sahel States,” Dr. Touray said. “His commitment to regional stability and cooperation is commendable.”
The three countries in question are Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger, had previously withdrawn from ECOWAS following political upheavals but are now seeking to re-engage with the regional community through the Sahel alliance, a move that has been welcomed by many stakeholders.
The celebration brought together heads of state, diplomats, regional leaders, and civil society representatives, all reflecting on ECOWAS’s legacy and future direction.
Activities planned for the 50th anniversary include policy forums, youth engagement programs, and cultural exhibitions across member countries.
ECOWAS was founded in 1975 with the aim of fostering economic integration and collective self-sufficiency among West African states.
Today, it comprises 15 member countries and remains a key player in regional peacekeeping and economic policy coordination.
