The Minister for Foreign Affairs, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, has emphasized the need for renewed commitment to diplomacy and regional unity as ECOWAS prepares to mark its 50th anniversary amidst ongoing political and security challenges.
Addressing the press in Accra on Thursday, April 17, ahead of the ECOWAS at 50 launch, the Minister noted that the regional bloc’s influence in peace and security once seen as a pillar during times of crisis and in upholding democratic governance through peacekeeping and diplomacy has recently come under pressure following the withdrawal of three member states.
According to him, the exit of Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso, and the subsequent formation of the Alliance of Sahel States (AES), has posed a significant test to the cohesion of the ECOWAS community.
The development, he said, has somewhat diminished the bloc’s impact in forging a united and integrated regional economic area.
Despite this, Mr. Ablakwa stressed that ECOWAS remains firmly committed to its foundational vision of a peaceful and prosperous West Africa.
He said the bloc must reinforce its efforts in both diplomacy and security coordination while reasserting its leadership in the region.
The Minister underscored that President John Dramani Mahama’s recent diplomatic outreach has been consistent with the ECOWAS commitment to regional dialogue, and his approach has been widely acknowledged for its pragmatic and unifying tone.
As ECOWAS commemorates its Golden Jubilee, he stressed the celebrations go beyond mere ceremony.
He emphasized that the milestone provides a strategic opportunity to assess achievements in regional stability, economic development, and cultural exchange.
It also aims to deepen public awareness of the ECOWAS mandate, encourage youth engagement, and foster inclusive dialogue on the future of integration.
