The ECOWAS Stabilization Support Mission in Guinea-Bissau (ESSMGB) has honoured personnel from Ghana, Nigeria, and Senegal, along with Staff Officers, in a joint medal presentation ceremony held at the Nigerian Contingent Camp.
The event, organized to commend the contingents for their dedication and efforts towards peacekeeping, celebrated the role of the troops in promoting stability and security in Guinea-Bissau.
The Force Commander of ESSMGB, Brigadier General Edward Odinya Ojabo, emphasized the significance of the occasion, describing it as a longstanding military tradition to acknowledge the service and commitment of peace support personnel.
Gracing the event as Special Guest of Honour, Her Excellency Dr Ngozi Ukaeje, Resident Representative of the ECOWAS Commission President, reaffirmed the mission’s continued partnership with Guinea-Bissau’s National Defence and Security Forces and other stakeholders to sustain peace efforts in the country.
Despite the formal withdrawal of Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger from the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) on January 29, 2025, citizens from these countries will still be able to use their national passports and identity cards bearing the ECOWAS logo for travel within the region.
ECOWAS has assured that in the interest of regional cooperation and to prevent unnecessary disruptions, all relevant authorities within and outside the bloc’s member states should continue to recognize these travel documents until further notice.
Additionally, trade and economic activities involving these three nations will not face immediate restrictions. Goods and services from Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger will continue to receive the same treatment under the ECOWAS Trade Liberalization Scheme (ETLS) and investment policy.
Citizens from the affected countries will also retain their right to visa-free movement, residence, and establishment across ECOWAS states, ensuring that travel and cross-border activities remain unhindered. Furthermore, officials from Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger working within ECOWAS will be given full support and cooperation in carrying out their assignments.
These measures will remain in place as ECOWAS leaders work on defining the future relationship between the bloc and the three nations. A special structure has been put in place to facilitate discussions on the next steps.
The regional body emphasized that these transitional arrangements aim to maintain stability, minimize confusion, and support the people and businesses affected by the withdrawal.
The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has praised President Akufo-Addo for overseeing Ghana’s peaceful and credible 2024 elections.
ECOWAS Chairman, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, hailed President Akufo-Addo’s dedication to democratic values and national stability, describing the election as a reflection of Ghana’s commitment to good governance.
“I congratulate President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo and the people of Ghana for the successful election and urge all of us in the region to learn from this good democratic practice and prioritise our country’s national unity to ensure the political stability of the region.”
During the final ECOWAS summit of 2024 held in Abuja, Nigeria, Tinubu highlighted Ghana’s electoral process as a model for other West African countries, encouraging leaders in the region to prioritize national unity and political stability.
He congratulated President Akufo-Addo and the citizens of Ghana for upholding democratic ideals and ensuring a smooth electoral process. ECOWAS observers who monitored the elections commended the fairness, transparency, and peaceful conduct of the polls.
The successful outcome has reinforced Ghana’s reputation as a beacon of democracy in West Africa, setting a positive example for neighboring nations working to strengthen their electoral systems.
John Dramani Mahama is now set to return as President on January 7, 2025, after defeating Vice President Mahamudu Bawumia in the elections. Official results from the Electoral Commission show Mahama secured 56% of the votes, while Bawumia received 41%.
This result ends the New Patriotic Party’s (NPP) eight-year rule under Akufo-Addo, whose administration faced significant economic challenges, including a debt crisis and IMF intervention.
The peaceful elections and transition of power are seen as a major step toward fostering regional cooperation and encouraging other ECOWAS countries to deepen their democratic practices.
Former Nigerian President, Goodluck Jonathan, has appealed to candidates in Ghana’s upcoming December 7 elections to honor the results. He has emphasized the importance of safeguarding peace and upholding democratic values.
Goodluck Jonathan, who is leading both the West African Elders Forum and the ECOWAS mission to Ghana, is committed to ensuring a peaceful electoral process.
The West African Elders Forum, made up of former presidents from across the region, focuses on resolving any conflicts that may arise during elections.
In a meeting with the National Election Security Taskforce on Thursday, December 5, Jonathan emphasized the necessity of holding a credible election.
He further encouraged all stakeholders to safeguard Ghana’s reputation as a pillar of democracy in the region.
“We want elections that will be peaceful and transparent and credible, and then all the stakeholders will be happy. Just like the IGP said, we will plead with our own colleagues who are politicians to be peaceful.
“Only one person wins in an election, and so whenever you are going for an election, you should be ready to either win or lose.”
The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) Court has directed the Government of Ghana to compensate the spokesperson for the New Force Movement, Shalimar Abbiusi, following an unlawful arrest and deportation.
A sum of ten thousand dollars (USD10,000) which is equivalent to one hundred and fifty, nine and fifty and eight pesewas Ghana Cedis (GHS157,953.80) is expected to be paid to Shalimar Abbiusi.
The ECOWAS Court argues that her rights were violated, emphasizing that the actions taken against her were in breach of international human rights standards and protections.
Shalimar Abbiusi was initially detained on December 4, 2023, after being accused of falsifying documents to obtain a student residence permit at Ghana Christian University College.
Although she was granted bail by National Security, she was rearrested and deported on December 20, 2023, just a day after charges against her were dropped by prosecutors from the Ghana Immigration Service.
Meanwhile, The New Force Movement has called on civil society organisations, human rights defenders, and the international community to join in condemning these violations and to support reforms that protect human rights in Ghana.
“We call on civil society organisations, human rights advocates, and the international community to join us in condemning these violations and supporting efforts for meaningful reform in Ghana. Together, we can foster a future where every individual’s rights are respected and protected. For further information or media inquiries, please contact our communications team at info@thenewforce.org,” it stated.
The New Force Movement reaffirmed its commitment to the fair application of laws across Africa and urged the Ghanaian government to respect human rights and the rule of law, as guaranteed by the nation’s Constitution.
“The New Force is dedicated to ensuring that laws are upheld fairly across all African nations, advocating for the rights of individuals regardless of their background. We urge the Ghanaian government to respect human rights and uphold the rule of law, as guaranteed by our Constitution. The actions against Ms. Abbiusi exemplify a broader issue of political persecution that threatens the foundations of democracy in Ghana. As we move forward, we remain steadfast in our mission to promote transparency and accountability within governmental institutions for the benefit of all.”
Reacting to the ruling, the legal representatives for Abbiusi, Francis-Xavier Sosu and Belinda Narkey Quaynor, expressed their satisfaction with the ruling.
Lawyer Sosu particularly praised the court’s decision, which he believes upheld his client’s rights adding that he “feels vindicated that the ECOWAS Court has protected the rights of Shalimar.”
The National Communications Authority (NCA), in partnership with the Ministry of Communications and Digitalisation and Mobile Network Operators (MNOs), is actively engaging stakeholders in The Gambia to progress the ECOWAS Free Roaming initiative.
This initiative seeks to lower telecommunication costs for individuals traveling between Ghana and The Gambia, enabling smoother communication and enhancing economic and social connections.
The discussions, which began on November 19, 2024, are set to conclude on November 21, 2024, with the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU). This agreement will initiate technical and regulatory discussions among MNOs, paving the way for the adoption and launch of the ECOWAS Roaming Regulations in the first half of 2025.
These efforts highlight the NCA’s dedication to consumer protection and advancing regional integration within the telecommunications industry.
Over the years, the NCA has implemented various consumer-focused initiatives, including the Billing Feedback Message, Significant Market Power (SMP) Regulations, SIM Registration, and Mobile Number Portability (MNP).
Additional measures such as UMTS 900 frequency allocation, Billing Verification Systems, NCA CERT, and technology neutrality further demonstrate the Authority’s commitment to safeguarding consumer interests as outlined in the NCA Act.
In his opening address, Prof. Ezer Osei Yeboah-Boateng, Deputy Director General (Technical Operations) of the NCA and head of Ghana’s delegation, described the meeting as a crucial step toward fostering regional integration. He highlighted Ghana’s leadership in regional connectivity, referencing existing bilateral roaming agreements with Côte d’Ivoire, Togo, and Benin.
‘This collaboration with The Gambia marks the next phase in extending affordable telecom services across the region’, he said.
Prof. Yeboah-Boateng emphasized that the partnership goes beyond cost savings, representing a unified commitment to building a West Africa where communication is accessible, effortless, and a driver of economic development, tourism, and regional harmony.
Speaking at the meeting, Mr. Solo Sima, Deputy Director General of The Gambia Public Utilities Regulatory Authority (PURA), expressed confidence in the ECOWAS Free Roaming Initiative’s potential to enhance Africa’s connectivity, create jobs, and boost business opportunities. He also urged regulators to account for the evolving impact of technologies like 5G, ensuring that agreements remain flexible and prioritize the needs of consumers.
Ghana’s ECOWAS Free Roaming Agreements with other countries
Travelers from Ghana to Côte d’Ivoire, Benin, and Togo benefit from reduced call charges, as they pay local rates for SMS and voice calls, avoiding excessive roaming fees.
Additionally, incoming calls, both local and international, are received at no cost due to the abolition of roaming charges for call reception.
Internet usage is also made affordable, with Ghanaians accessing data services at the same rates as residents in Côte d’Ivoire, Benin, and Togo.
Former Nigerian President Goodluck Jonathan, who chairs the West Africa Elders Forum—a prominent diplomatic election observation group—has expressed confidence in theElectoral Commission’s (EC)ability to conduct the upcoming elections on December 7.
After leading a delegation from the forum in discussions with the EC, Mr. Jonathan noted that the Commission has effectively communicated its preparedness to facilitate a free, fair, and transparent electoral process.
Additionally, a courtesy visit was made by the West Africa Election Observers Network, led by its chairman, Rev. James Lahai, who is also the National Coordinator for National Election Watch in Sierra Leone.
Mr. Jonathan mentioned that when the forum, consisting of former leaders from West African nations, raised concerns from various stakeholders, the EC provided thorough and satisfactory answers. He concluded that these responses reflect the EC’s readiness to ensure a peaceful and successful election on December 7, 2024.
“We had a robust discussion with the EC. We’ve seen the passion they have; the commitment they have for conducting successful elections, and what they have done so far, it is key.
“We had interactions with a number of people before coming here, and all the issues they raised, which we put across to her, she’s explained perfectly. And we have no iota of doubt about the competence and the willingness for the Commission to do what is right, come the December Elections,” he stated.
Mr. Jonathan urged other stakeholders and Ghanaians to uphold their reputation as a beacon of democracy, contributing to the pride of West Africa and the broader continent.
Rev. Lahai, on his part, noted that theElectoral Commission has shown a willingness to engage in discussions aimed at facilitating free, fair, and transparent elections.
He emphasised that their visit and discussions with the EC were productive, as the Commission addressed several critical concerns raised by various players involved in the upcoming elections.
Furthermore, Rev. Lahai stated that the West African Election Observers Network would continue its fact-finding efforts with other key stakeholders and had recently interacted with the media to share their findings from these engagements.
Later, the Chairperson of the EC, Jean Adukwei Mensa, spoke to the media about the importance of their collaboration with the forum.
“This evening we’ve had the opportunity to meet and interact with the West Africa Election Observers Network and the West Africa Elders Forum.”
“While we have shared with them our experiences and preparedness for the elections on December 7, 2024, they also shared with us some of their ideas, some of their experiences, and some of the best practices from their own countries,” she said.
Mrs Mensa statedthat the commission also informed the two groups about the election process and addressed concerns that they raised over the electoral process to ensure that the commission was on top of issues to deliver credible, free, and fair elections.
President Nana Akufo-Addohas dismissed allegations that the recent arrest and detention of 53 protesters was an effort to suppress dissent in the country.
Speaking in an interview with France 24 on Friday, October 4, he emphasised his support for peaceful protests as a legitimate form of democratic expression.
This statement follows the arrest of 53 individuals who were demonstrating against illegal mining, commonly referred to as galamsey.
“I am not responsible for jailing people in Ghana. The courts in Ghana are independent institutions, and they have been so through the Fourth Republic. People misconduct themselves and are brought before the court; it is for the court; it is for the court to deal with them; it has nothing to do with the executive; and their behaviour is what landed them in trouble with the police and the court.
“How can a president whose political career was aided by leading protests have problems with protests? I don’t have problems with protests, and nothing is done in Ghana to prevent people from airing their views.”
The recent protest aimed to spotlight the environmental destruction caused by galamsey, an illegal mining practice that has devastated Ghana’s rivers and forests.
While President Nana Akufo-Addo acknowledged the seriousness of the issue, he reiterated the importance of peaceful, lawful demonstrations, encouraging protesters to collaborate with authorities to develop lasting solutions.
Shifting his focus to regional matters, Akufo-Addo expressed disappointment with the decisions of military juntas in Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger to exit the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) following their coups.
Despite this, he remains hopeful that diplomatic efforts will eventually lead to their reintegration into the regional bloc.
Discussing the broader security challenges in the Sahel, Akufo-Addo noted the worsening instability since French troops withdrew in 2023.
The exit of these forces, previously engaged in the fight against extremist groups, has sparked a rise in militant activity.
The president urged West African nations to strengthen their cooperation to address the growing extremism in the region, calling on ECOWAS to intensify its peacebuilding efforts.
The Forestry Commission of Ghana has reported that the country generated €1,702,426.33 from timber exports to ECOWAS countries during the second quarter (April to June) of 2024.
This amount was secured from the export of 4,804.924 m³ of timber and wood products, indicating Ghana’s continued engagement in the regional timber market despite a decline in both volume and value compared to the previous year.
This figure reflects a sharp decrease from the €3,038,606.66 earned during the same period in 2023 when the volume of exports was significantly higher at 7,906.619 m³. The average unit price of timber and wood products also saw a decline, dropping from €384.31/m³ in Q2 2023 to €354.31/m³ in Q2 2024.
The overall decline in exports shows a shift in demand, possibly due to global market fluctuations and competition from other timber-exporting countries.
In Togo, the value of timber exports decreased from €815,314.30 in Q2 2023 to €382,156.79 in Q2 2024, despite a relatively small decline in volume from 2,056.520 m³ to 983.399 m³. Senegal also saw a decline in export value, dropping from €1,005,581.13 to €184,362.86 with volume decreasing from 2,707.041 m³ to 566.980 m³.
Burkina Faso showed a decline in revenue from €756,597.25 in 2023 to €420,293.60 in 2024, with volumes falling from 1,745.277 m³ to 1,194.280 m³. In Niger, while the value slightly decreased from €344,650.21 to €405,905.03, the volume of exports increased from 938.692 m³ to 1,208.583 m³, indicating a possible change in purchasing dynamics.
Exports to Nigeria represented a notable decrease, with revenue falling from €53,862.81 to €92,959.86, reflecting a drop in volume from 150.033 m³ to 255.849 m³. The smallest markets, such as Côte d’Ivoire and Mali, also experienced reduced demand, contributing minimally to the overall export figures.
Among the 115 exporters recorded in Q2 2024, leading companies included Samartex Timber and Plywood Company Limited, Logs and Lumber Limited, and Multimodal Freight Services Limited. These companies exported a diverse range of products, including lumber (both air-dried and kiln-dried), plywood, and billets.
In general, the Forestry Commission reports that Ghana secured €31,256,035.35 from the export of 68,965.620 m³ of timber and wood products from April to June of 2024. However, this represents a decrease of 15.27% in value and 15.34% in volume compared to the €36,890,952.87 earned from 81,462.698 m³ in the same quarter of 2023.
The top five products exported were Lumber (Air Dried), Lumber (Kiln Dried), Plywood (Overland), Plywood, and Billet, whereas the the top five favourite destinations were, India, Senegal, the United States of America, Germany, and Togo.
Ghana has been awarded Tier 1 status in the 2024 Global Cybersecurity Index (GCI), released by the International Telecommunication Union (ITU), positioning the country as a global leader in cybersecurity.
The GCI ranks countries based on a five-tier system that assesses their cybersecurity frameworks, with Tier 1 being the highest level of recognition. Ghana’s placement in this category, known as the “Role Modelling” tier, underscores its advanced cybersecurity measures, serving as a benchmark for other nations.
This prestigious ranking highlights the robustness of Ghana’s cybersecurity infrastructure, which is vital in safeguarding its growing digital ecosystem. With a remarkable score of 99.27%, Ghana is the second-highest ranked country in Africa, after Mauritius, and is among only five African nations that have reached Tier 1. Globally, Ghana is part of a select group of 46 countries in this top category.
The GCI evaluates countries across five key pillars: Legal Measures, Technical Measures, Organisational Measures, Capacity Building, and Cooperation.
Ghana’s score indicates a marked improvement from the 2020 rankings, where the country was rated 86.69% and placed third in Africa, trailing behind Mauritius and Tanzania.
Ghana’s achievement in the GCI reflects significant advancements in several critical areas. The Cybersecurity Act, 2020 (Act 1038), remains a key driver of this success.
As a pioneering piece of legislation for the Global South, this law establishes protocols for the licensing and accreditation of cybersecurity service providers, making Ghana only the second country globally to implement such standards.
Furthermore, Ghana’s efforts to protect its Critical Information Infrastructures (CIIs) have been instrumental, with the Cybersecurity Authority (CSA) overseeing the development of a comprehensive risk management framework and coordinating crisis management for government digital initiatives.
Institutional collaboration has also been a major factor, with the Joint Cybersecurity Committee (JCC) exemplifying effective coordination between the public and private sectors. The upcoming launch of the Industry Forum, as stipulated under section 81 of Act 1038, is expected to further enhance these efforts.
Additionally, Ghana’s revision of its National Cybersecurity Policy and Strategy provides clear guidance for continued growth in the field.
The country has also demonstrated a commitment to cybersecurity awareness through initiatives such as the annual National Cyber Security Awareness Month, which, alongside capacity-building programs for law enforcement, the public sector, and academia, reflects Ghana’s dedication to enhancing cybersecurity skills.
The development of a robust Computer Emergency Response Team (CERT) ecosystem has been equally critical, promoting better incident response and national coordination.
Public engagement in cybersecurity has been strengthened by the deployment of cybercrime reporting mechanisms, including dedicated points of contact and monthly public alerts.
Internationally, Ghana has earned recognition as a hub for training and capacity-building, particularly in partnership with organizations such as the European Union, Council of Europe (COE), the World Bank, and ECOWAS.
Ghana’s commitment to international cooperation is further highlighted by its ratification of the Second Additional Protocol to the Budapest Convention and its contributions to the adoption of the recent UN Convention on Cybercrimes.
The protection of children online has also been a priority for Ghana, evidenced by the review of its Child Online Protection framework and the establishment of the National Cybersecurity Challenge, aimed at promoting online safety for young internet users.
Ghana’s Tier 1 status in the GCI reflects the country’s unwavering commitment to securing its cyberspace and maintaining a resilient digital infrastructure.
This achievement is the result of collective efforts led by the Ministry of Communications and Digitalisation, the Joint Cybersecurity Committee (JCC), and other key stakeholders in both the public and private sectors.
While Ghana’s leadership in global cybersecurity is commendable, the country recognizes the need for continued progress, particularly in the area of capacity development. Despite excelling in four out of five pillars, Ghana’s capacity-building score highlights the need for increased investment to sustain and enhance its cybersecurity capabilities.
In comparison, major sub-Saharan countries such as Nigeria and Cameroon are still classified in Tier 3, indicating that they are in the process of establishing key cybersecurity initiatives. Ghana’s leadership in the region underscores the importance of continued efforts to expand its capacity and maintain its position as a global role model in cybersecurity.
The Economic Community of West African States’ (ECOWAS) Gender Development Centre has presented a $245,000 grant to bolster efforts in combating obstetric fistula and assisting affected Ghanaian women and other victims in the sub-region.
The funds are designated to support the treatment, prevention, and social reintegration of women suffering from the condition, which disproportionately affects those in underserved areas with limited access to maternal healthcare.
The body made the donation at the launch of the 2024 edition of the Obstetric Fistula Program under the theme “Strengthening Women’s Health Needs and Social Empowerment,” which aims to eradicate obstetric fistula across Ghana and West Africa.
The launch was executed by the Ministry of Health, in partnership with the Ministry of Gender, Children, and Social Protection in Ghana.
Research says Obstetric Fistula is a medical condition in women, primarily caused by prolonged and obstructed labor without timely medical intervention. It results in an abnormal opening between a woman’s birth canal (vagina) and her bladder or rectum, leading to chronic leakage of urine or faeces.
Speaking on behalf of Health Minister Dr. Bernard Okoe-Boye, Director of Allied Health, Dr. Ignatius Awinibuno, emphasized that obstetric fistula remains a significant health challenge for women in sub-Saharan Africa. He described the severe physical and social consequences of the condition, noting that many women suffering from fistula face isolation from their families and communities.
As part of the government’s strategy to address obstetric fistula, Dr. Okoe-Boye outlined the Ghana Health Service’s Obstetric Fistula Prevention and Management Strategic Plan (GOFPMSP), focusing on prevention, treatment, and social reintegration. “The availability of emergency obstetric care in remote areas, enhanced treatment capacity at facilities like the Tamale Fistula Centre, and vocational training for reintegrating affected women are all critical components of this plan,” he said.
Dr. Gabriel Ganyagio, representing the Ministry of Health’s Chief Director, Alhaji Hafiz Adam, also announced that significant upgrades are underway at the Tamale Fistula Centre, thanks to ECOWAS funding. “The rehabilitation of the Tamale Fistula Centre will equip it to provide not only surgical repairs but also comprehensive psychological and social support services for affected women,” Dr. Ganyagio remarked.
The Ministry of Gender, Children, and Social Protection, represented by Nyavor Victoria, reiterated that ECOWAS has initiated several programs aimed at improving the economic and health conditions of women and girls in Ghana. She mentioned scholarships for girls pursuing vocational and technical education, assistance for women suffering from obstetric fistula, and support for women in the agricultural and craft sectors.
“The ECOWAS Gender Development Centre has made significant strides in providing scholarships to deserving girls and offering direct support to women with obstetric fistula,” Ms. Victoria stated. She added that a gender analysis tool and feedback mechanisms have been implemented to ensure that the scholarships benefit the most deserving candidates.
The National Institutes of Health reports that globally, over 2 million girls and women live with obstetric fistula and 50 000–100 000 women develop obstetric fistula every year. In Ghana, 1352 women per 751, 205 deliveries develop obstetric fistula each year with an incidence rate of 1.8 per 1000 deliveries.
The most common symptom is continuous, involuntary leakage of urine (vesicovaginal fistula) or feces (rectovaginal fistula) through the vagina. Women with fistula often suffer from repeated urinary tract or vaginal infections due to the constant exposure of the affected areas to urine or faeces. The primary treatment for obstetric fistula is surgery to close the abnormal opening.
Chief Executive Officer of the National Entrepreneurship and Innovation Programme (NEIP), Kofi Ofosu Nkansah, has criticized the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC) for allegedly spreading false information about the ongoing 8-lane Kasoa-Winneba Highway project.
In a strongly-worded Facebook post on Wednesday, August 28, Mr. Nkansah accused the NDC of misleading the public regarding the source of funds for the highway’s expansion.
According to Mr. Nkansah, the NDC’s claims that the project is being financed by the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) are entirely baseless.
He emphasized that the construction of the 30-kilometer highway, which is currently about 45% complete, is fully funded by the Government of Ghana.
“The 8-lane 30km Kasoa-Winneba Highway project is about 45% complete,” Mr. Nkansah stated. “The project is FULLY funded by the Government of Ghana and not ECOWAS as being peddled by the NDC.”
Mr. Nkansah further accused the NDC of deliberately spreading misinformation about government initiatives, suggesting that these tactics are part of a broader strategy to deceive Ghanaians ahead of the 2024 elections.
He urged the public to seek accurate information and not be swayed by what he described as the opposition’s attempt to mislead the electorate.
The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) Commission has firmly denied claims that it forecasted violence during Ghana’s 2024 general elections, refuting reports published by The Herald newspaper on August 21, 2024.
The newspaper had alleged that ECOWAS, in a ‘draft statement’ from its recent Pre-Election Fact-Finding Mission, suggested the potential for violence during the upcoming electoral process.
In an official statement, ECOWAS clarified that its pre-electoral missions do not release findings publicly. Such reports, the Commission emphasized, are confidential and prepared exclusively for the President of the Commission to guide engagements with member states.
The Commission strongly rejected the claim that it had predicted any violence in Ghana’s elections, labelling the article a gross distortion of its procedures and findings.
“To educate The Herald, ECOWAS pre-electoral Missions do not issue statements on their findings. Reports of such missions are confidential and meant only for the President of the Commission to aid his engagements with the authorities in Member States,” the statement read.
The Commission further stated that the preliminary report from its recent mission in Ghana was still under review. At no time, ECOWAS stressed, had it suggested violence in the electoral process. The organization criticized The Herald for misrepresenting its practices and distorting public information to support partisan narratives.
“The ECOWAS Commission rightly holds Ghana in high esteem as a model of maturing democracy and tolerance on the continent and often cites the country for regulation in the region,” the statement continued. ECOWAS condemned efforts by sections of the media to misuse its name in attempts to incite division and unrest among Ghana’s population.
ECOWAS reaffirmed its commitment to peace and democratic stability in Ghana, expressing confidence in the country’s capacity for a peaceful election in 2024.
“Ghana deserves better,” the Commission concluded, refuting any attempts to stir discord ahead of the elections.
West African leaders’ summit in Abuja, Nigeria, began following an alliance formed by the military rulers of Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger, who recently announced their withdrawal from the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS).
Hosted amid calls from several regional leaders for renewed dialogue with the coup-affected Sahel nations, the ECOWAS summit aims to address the implications of the new defence pact signed by Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger during their recent summit in Niamey, Niger.
Last September, the three countries established the Alliance of Sahel States, allowing for cooperation in response to internal uprisings or external threats. The withdrawal of these nations from ECOWAS in January came after the bloc took a firm stance against their respective coups.
According to Al Jazeera’s Ahmed Idris reporting from Abuja, the timing of Saturday’s announcement by the Sahel alliance was intended to demonstrate the autonomy and self-sufficiency of the three countries apart from the regional bloc.
“But some analysts say Mali and Niger in particular could face difficulties if all member countries of ECOWAS decide to isolate the two landlocked countries,” he said.
“Right now, the military leaders of Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger seem to have momentum on their side and they are scouting the global community for support. ECOWAS has a lot of work ahead before it can bring these three countries back into the fold, if at all they agree to do that.”
Speaking at the summit on Saturday, Niger’s General Abdourahamane Tchiani called the 50-year-old ECOWAS “a threat to our states”, adding that the three countries aim to create an alliance free of foreign influence for their people.
In February, ECOWAS opted to relax sanctions against Niger in hopes of fostering better relations, but efforts for reconciliation have seen limited success. The sanctions were initially imposed after a coup in July 2023 that brought Tchiani to power.
Abdulaziz Abdulaziz, a media aide to the Nigerian president, emphasized to Al Jazeera that despite the strained relations between ECOWAS and the Sahel alliance over the past year, there have been some incremental achievements.
“The handling of the fragile situations in these countries – even though perhaps not ideally what we would want – has helped to de-escalate tensions, but at one point, tensions were really high and things could have gone south,” he said.
As the Sahel region shifts towards allying with Russia, the United States is set to complete its withdrawal from a key base in Niger on Sunday, which it had built to combat armed groups that pledged allegiance to al-Qaeda and ISIL (ISIS).
About 1,000 US military personnel were set to withdraw from Niger’s Air Base 101.
Following the coups in West Africa, the breakaway countries have had increasingly strained relations with the West, condemning influence, particularly by former colonial ruler France. French troops left Mali completely in 2022, and they completed their withdrawal from Niger and Burkina Faso last year.
Impact on fighting armed groups
Amid the political and militaryshifts following the coups, the armed groups continue to pose a considerable danger to the whole region.
Kabir Adamu, a security consultant, told Al Jazeera that Burkina Faso, Mali and Niger will still need support from the rest of the region.
“If they decide to operate on their own or try to isolate other ECOWAS countries, or other countries within the Sahel, these [armed] groups will continue to exploit these gaps that will be created and of course, continue to impact a heavy toll on both the security forces and the citizens of the three countries.”
According to the Armed Conflict Location and Event Data Project (ACLED), which tracks violence in the region, more than 8,000 people were killed in Burkina Faso in 2023, and gains against armed groups largely backslid in Niger.
In Mali, it said, military forces were working with Russia’s Wagner mercenaries and had been involved in “indiscriminate killing” of civilians.
ECOWAS Resident Representative in Ghana, Baba Gana Waki, has emphasized the vital role of digitalization in the economic advancement of member states.
He noted that in an era where digitalization is pivotal to economic growth, young people worldwide are utilizing information and communication technology (ICT) to address unemployment.
During an interview amid a 10-day intensive program aimed at equipping over 200 Ghanaian youth with essential digital skills, Mr. Waki highlighted that no economy can prosper in the contemporary era without embracing digital technologies.
This initiative, running from 3rd to 14th June, aims to empower hundreds of young individuals, equipping them with the necessary tools to thrive in the swiftly evolving digital economy.
It represents a significant effort to tackle the escalating rates of youth unemployment in the country.
As part of ECOWAS’s broader regional development strategy, the program concentrates on vital areas such as coding, software, mobile and web development (front and back-end) during the first week, followed by cable TV development in the subsequent week.
Its objective is to bridge the skills gap and prepare participants for opportunities in the global digital marketplace.
Mr. Waki emphasized that the future of the sub-region lies in the hands of its young people.
He highlighted that youth unemployment poses an existential threat to national and regional security, given that about 65 percent of the population in the sub-region consists of youth.
“Because of the over reliance on government and White-collar jobs, the youth are unable to get employment in government circles. The best way for them to escape this cycle is to be able to train in ICT to acquire digital skills and create their own jobs,” he added.
Mr. Wakil emphasized that without harnessing and nurturing the potential of youth, the economies of Ghana and other sub-regional nations would struggle to compete effectively on the global stage.
He highlighted that the younger generation needs to adopt digital transformation, possessing digital skills, access, and assets to actively contribute to shaping the future of the sub-region.
The ECOWAS Resident Representative noted that with the evolution of traditional job markets and the emergence of new opportunities, integrating digital skills has become imperative for economic sustainability and personal career growth.
He reiterated that the ECOWAS Commission has fully embraced ICT, establishing a new department on Innovation and Digitalization to align the sub-region with global standards and foster competitiveness with developed nations.
Mr. Wakil mentioned that ECOWAS has implemented a Regional Action Plan on Digitalization to drive digital technology adoption across all levels, aligning member states’ efforts to accelerate growth, boost productivity, and create employment opportunities in the sub-region.
The Narcotics Control Commission (NACOC), in partnership with the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), is promoting rehabilitation instead of imprisonment for individuals grappling with substance abuse.
In alignment with this goal, ECOWAS has initiated a trial program in Ghana, Nigeria, and Senegal, offering alternative sentencing options for drug-related crimes to combat the escalating drug addiction crisis in the region.
A five-day technical workshop and training session are currently ongoing in Accra for selected stakeholders in preparation for the implementation of a specialized court docket program, also known as a recovery court, aimed at facilitating the treatment and recovery of individuals. This initiative marks the first of its kind in West Africa.
The project is part of the Enhancing Africa’s Response to Transnational Organized Crime (ENACT) initiative, which delivers treatment and rehabilitation services to individuals struggling with substance use disorders.
Significance
Director-General of NACOC, Kenneth Adu-Amanfoh, characterized the project as pertinent and mentioned the shortcomings of the conventional method in tackling the underlying reasons of addiction.
“Substance use disorders continue to plague our society, exacting a toll not only on individuals but on families, communities and the nation as a whole,” he said. Mr Adu-Amanfoh expressed the government’s commitment in placing health and human rights at the heart of the national drug policy, evidenced by the enactment of the Narcotics Control Commission Act 2020 (ACT 1019).
“This pilot project represents a significant step forward in our collective efforts to confront substance use disorders with empathy, innovation and evidence-based strategies. “By focusing on prevention, treatment and rehabilitation, rather than punishment, we have the opportunity to transform lives, strengthen families and build safer and healthier communities,” he added.
Addressing root cause
The Resident Representative of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), Baba Gana Wakil, also mentioned that the criminal justice system by itself is insufficient to address the drug issue.
“We need to address the root causes of addiction and provide support for recovery.”
According to the 2023 World Drug Report, around 296 million individuals used drugs at least once in 2021, with about 39.5 million of them experiencing substance use disorders (SUDs), and only 15 individuals with SUDs receiving any form of treatment.
The United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) estimated that approximately 3.1 million people were detained worldwide in 2020 for drug-related offenses, with 61 percent of these arrests being for drug possession for personal use.
“Several studies have indicated that putting people who have substance use disorders (SUDs) in jail or prison is futile. There is, therefore, a gradual shift from incarceration to the provision of treatment and care for people with SUDs worldwide,” he said.
The ECOWAS Commission, the representative mentioned, had assisted over 20 drug treatment and rehabilitation centers in five member nations to enhance access to treatment and rehabilitation services.
Furthermore, he noted that more than 200 healthcare professionals across the region had received training to offer care for individuals with SUDs.
Support
A senior researcher and project coordinator of ENACT, Dr Christian Ani, also said that “at least 500,000 people die each year globally due to substance abuse, while many more face chronic diseases”.
“This calls for a new response. We must not look at it as a crime and address societal factors; we need to change mindsets,” he said. A principal programme officer at the ECOWAS drug control and prevention division, Dr Dan Akwasi Amankwah, said the workshop would come up with a roadmap on how to roll out the pilot project. In Ghana, he said the Pantang Hospital had received a $90,000 support to renovate a drug rehabilitation center to enhance access to treatment for drug addicts.
The ECOWAS Resident Representative, Ambassador Baba Gana Wakil, has called on Ghana to safeguard its longstanding peace in the upcoming December 2024 elections.
He highlighted Ghana’s reputation as a model peaceful country and a reference point for other West African nations.
Speaking to the media on the sidelines of an event commemorating ECOWAS Day, themed “ECOWAS Yesterday, Today, and Tomorrow,” Ambassador Baba Gana Wakil stressed the importance of maintaining peace during the electoral process.
“Ghana remains a reference point and an inspiration to other member states because of the series of peaceful elections that have been taking place here.
“I think we are now going into the ninth general election successfully. Yes of course, there are always hiccups here and there but generally speaking, Ghana remains a reference point in conducting peaceful elections. And we hope that this time around too, they will maintain that reputation.
“The reputation is already well established. We want to make sure that Ghana maintains this reputation to continue to serve as an inspiration to its neighbours, especially in the sub-region,” he said.
Ambassador Wakil noted that Ghana’s peaceful elections would serve as an inspiration to other member states in the region.
He urged all stakeholders, including political parties, security agencies, and citizens, to work together to uphold Ghana’s democratic values and stability.
The Leader of the Movement for Change, Alan Kyerematen, has pledged to abolish several taxes on imports, which he considers unnecessary and burdensome for traders.
He made this commitment during a meeting with members of the Ghana Union of Traders Association (GUTA).
Mr. Kyerematen stressed that eliminating these taxes and levies would position Ghana as having the lowest tax regime among ECOWAS countries.
He believes this move will ease the financial burden on traders and create a more favorable environment for trade and investment, thus fostering economic growth.
This pledge demonstrates Kyerematen’s dedication to addressing traders’ concerns and promoting favorable business conditions in Ghana.
He aims to reduce the cost of doing business, stimulate trade, and enhance Ghana’s economic competitiveness in the region by removing these taxes.
“Under my presidency, Ghana will have the lowest tax rate regime in ECOWAS”.
“I will ensure a recalibration of the existing tax regime structure to optimize revenue mobilisation from direct taxes (personal and corporate), and reduce over-reliance on indirect taxes (import duties, levies, and charges) to make the corporate sector more competitive and profitable,” he added.
Ghana’s Majority Leader in Parliament, Member of Parliament for Effutu constituency, Alexander Kwamena Afenyo-Markin, has been appointed as the 3rd Deputy Speaker of the ECOWAS Parliament, marking a significant milestone in his parliamentary career.
Afenyo-Markin’s extensive experience in both national and ECOWAS parliamentary affairs makes him well-suited for this prestigious position.
The inauguration of the 6th ECOWAS Parliament took place on April 4, 2024, with Guinea’s reinstatement into the community serving as a positive sign of regional stability following its recent political turmoil.
However, the absence of Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso at the ceremony highlighted a gap in the unity of the ECOWAS community.
The Republic of Togo, responsible for nominating the Speaker for the 6th Parliament, is yet to announce its candidates. As a result, Sidie Mohamed Tunis has been temporarily appointed as the ceremonial Speaker, especially since Togo’s parliamentary elections have been postponed.
The lineup of Deputy Speakers includes Barau Jibrin from Nigeria, Adjaratou Coulibaly from Ivory Coast, and Billay G. Tunkara from the Gambia, holding the 1st, 2nd, and 4th positions respectively.
The selection of Deputy Speakers was marked by intense lobbying, with Cabo Verde’s bid being unsuccessful due to its failure to fulfill financial commitments to the ECOWAS, echoing challenges faced during the 5th ECOWAS Parliament.
This situation has sparked concerns among member states regarding financial participation and its potential impact on governance.
As the newly elected representatives of the 6th ECOWAS Parliament assume their roles, they face the crucial task of addressing regional issues and advancing the collective objectives of member nations, amidst a backdrop of complex political and economic dynamics across the region.
Alexander Kwamena Afenyo-Markin, the Majority Leader of Ghana’s Parliament, has been appointed as the 3rd Deputy Speaker of the ECOWAS Parliament, a position that highlights his extensive involvement in both national and regional parliamentary activities.
The inauguration ceremony of the 6th ECOWAS Parliament on April 4, 2024, was significant, with Guinea’s readmission symbolizing progress towards regional stability following its political challenges.
However, the absence of Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso at the ceremony underscored a gap in the community’s unity.
Despite Togo’s responsibility to nominate the Speaker for the 6th Parliament, no candidates have been announced yet, leading to the temporary appointment of Sidie Mohamed Tunis as the ceremonial Speaker, especially since Togo’s parliamentary elections have been postponed.
The lineup of Deputy Speakers includes Nigeria’s Barau Jibrin, Ivory Coast’s Adjaratou Coulibaly, and the Gambia’s Billay G. Tunkara, holding the 1st, 2nd, and 4th positions, respectively.
The selection of Deputy Speakers was marked by intense lobbying, and Cabo Verde’s bid fell short due to unmet financial commitments to the ECOWAS, reminiscent of challenges it faced during the 5th ECOWAS Parliament.
This situation has raised concerns among member states regarding financial participation and its impact on governance.
As the 6th ECOWAS Parliament begins its term, the newly elected representatives must address regional issues and promote the shared goals of member nations, amidst complex political and economic dynamics across the region.
Bongo Ideas has raised concerns about his safety in Ghana following a recent incident involving individuals impersonating police officers.
In an interview on the Onua Maakye show with Captain Smart, the activist shared that his forceful arrest and mistreatment have left him feeling unsafe in Ghana.
Feeling vulnerable, he has sought assistance from organizations such as ECOWAS and the African Union.
To reduce the risk of similar incidents, he has chosen to stay at the homes of friends and family instead of his own residence.
In a bid to improve his security situation, he mentioned that he would consider traveling to the United States if possible.
It was last reported that Bongo Ideas was apprehended by some men who identified themselves as police officers.
He recounted that he was beaten and warned against peddling into the affairs of President Akufo-Addo.
I no longer feel safe here, so I've written to ECOWAS and other international organisations. I would feel safe if I were living in a gated community – Albert Nat Hyde (Bongo Ideas)#TV3GH via @OnuatTV pic.twitter.com/sZTAdPQM8e
The Ghana Immigration Service’s (GIS) Western Regional Command successfully apprehended sixty-six migrants on Wednesday, March 27, 2024, at various hideouts in Sekondi-Takoradi.
This operation aligns with the GIS’s ‘TRIPPLE S’ Campaign, aimed at ensuring national security, stability, and safety.
According to a statement from the GIS, the suspects, comprising 45 men and 21 women aged between 19 and 54, were recruited from towns like Tanda, Agnibilekro, Bondougkou, Nindo, and Aboisso Abidjan for cybercrimes and other illegal activities.
Investigations revealed that Ghanaians Romio and Akwesi Daniel were part of the syndicate recruiting Ivorians under the guise of an online business (QNET). While two suspects, Bamba Ladja (26) and Troare Yssouf (21), remain detained for further investigation, the rest have been repatriated.
In a related incident on March 19, 2024, Axim Sector Commander, Deputy Superintendent of Immigration Emmanuel Adams, led an operation leading to the arrest of six Nigerian women operating as sex workers at the Bafana Bafana Beach Resort, a known brothel.
These women, aged between 19 and 26, have also been repatriated following their arrest.
Spokesperson for the New Force Movement, Shalimar Abbiusi, who was recently repatriated has filed a lawsuit through her lawyers, led by Francis Xavier Sosu, at the international ECOWAS Court on January 23, over human rights violations and injustice.
Among nine reliefs, she is seeking one million dollars in compensation from Ghana for alleged violations of her human rights.
In December last year, the Ghana Immigration Service (GIS) arrested and charged her for “obtaining for yourself a student permit by false declaration contrary to section 52 (1) (i) of the Immigration Act 2000 {Act 573).”
After the charges against her were dropped, Shalimar Abbiusi was repatriated. Dissatisfied with the circumstances of her arrest, repatriation, and the subsequent criticism of the GIS for human rights abuses by her attorney, Francis-Xavier Sosu, she sued the state, seeking compensation.
“An order directed at the Republic of Ghana to pay compensatory damages of Ghana Cedis equivalent of one million United States dollars (USD 1.000.000.00 to the applicant who is a victim of human rights violations by the Republic of Ghana,” the 30-year-old Belgian stated in her writ filed on January 23, 2024.
“The originating application for the enforcement of the human rights of the applicant pursuant to Articles 9(4) and Protocol A/P.1/07/91 and Suplementary Protocol A/SP.1/01/05 respectively was filed on January 24.
The applicant is seeking the following reliefs:
I. A declaration that every individual within the territorial jurisdiction of the Republic of Ghana is entitled to the internationally recognised human rights enshrined in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights; the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights; the Body of Principles for the protection of all persons under any form of detention or imprisonment; and the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights.
II. A declaration that the Republic of Ghana has an obligation to respect, protect and fulfil within the territorial jurisdiction of the Republic of Ghana the internationally recognised human rights of every individual enshrined in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights; the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights; the Body of Principles for the protection of all persons under any form of detention or imprisonment and the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights.
III. A declaration that the Republic of Ghana has violated the Applicant’s rights to liberty and security of her person and freedom from unlawful and arbitrary arrest and detention enshrined in Article 9 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights; Article 9 of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights; Principles 2 and 11 of the Body of Principles for the protection of all persons under any form of detention or imprisonment and Article 6 of the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights.
IV. A declaration that the Republic of Ghana violated the Applicant’s rights to fair hearing and administrative justice, enshrined in Article 10 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights; Articles 5(2); and 14(1) of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights; and Article 7(1)(a) of the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights.
V. A declaration that the Republic of Ghana has violated the Applicant’s rights to equality before the law and freedom from discrimination enshrined in Articles 2 and 7 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights; Articles 2; 14(1); and 26 of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights; and Articles 2 and 3 of the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights.
VI. A declaration that the Republic of Ghana has violated the Applicant’s rights to freedom of movement enshrined in Article 13 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights; Article 11 of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights; and Article 12 of the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights.
VII. An order directed at the Republic of Ghana to pay compensatory damages of Ghana Cedis equivalent of one million United States dollars (USD 1.000.000.00) to the applicant who is a victim of human rights violations by the Republic of Ghana.
VIII. Costs including legal fees on full indemnity basis.
XI. Any other order(s) or direction(s) as the Court deems appropriate for giving effect to or enabling effect to be given to the declarations made herein.
Shalimar Abbiusi, known as a spokesperson for the New Force Movement, has announced her intention to take legal action against the Ghanaian government at the ECOWAS court for alleged human rights violations and injustice.
The Ghana Immigration Service (GIS) arrested and deported Shalimar in December 2023, accusing her of entering the country with falsified documents. Her lawyer, Francis-Xavier Sosu, strongly condemned the GIS’s actions, citing human rights abuses.
Taking to her X profile (formerly Twitter) on Friday, March 22, the Belgian national stated her plans to sue Ghana at the ECOWAS court, expressing gratitude to Francis-Xavier Sosu and the New Force Movement for their support throughout the ordeal.
Shalimar asserted that the experience has not weakened her resolve but rather motivated her to advocate for others facing similar injustices, emphasizing that her legal action is driven by a desire for justice and fairness.
She underscored the broader significance of her fight, stating that it represents not only her struggle but also the plight of others who have suffered injustice, including those she encountered during her detention.
However, she did not provide a specific timeline for filing the lawsuit.
I can finally share the news that I will be taking the state of Ghana to international ECOWAS court for the violation of my human rights and the injustice I have suffered.
Member of the ECOWAS Parliament and Deputy Minister-designate for Fisheries, Musah Abdul Aziz Ayaaba, has called upon West African leaders to refrain from altering their constitutions and instead peacefully transfer power when their terms conclude.
Abdul Aziz Ayaaba, also serving as the Member of Parliament for Moon, emphasized that this practice would foster peace within the ECOWAS subregion.
During his vetting by Parliament’s Appointment Committee, the Deputy Minister-designate for Fisheries and Aquaculture Development highlighted the importance of adhering to the existing ECOWAS charter on democracy. He stressed the necessity for ECOWAS member states to uphold the charter to promote good governance and peaceful democratic norms.
Abdul Aziz Ayaaba expressed his concerns, stating, “What I would say about the situation is that in the subregion, there is a challenge. But there were structures in place even before I joined ECOWAS. There is a chatter of democracy that the ECOWAS States have signed onto. Violation of this chatter is mostly the problem in the sub-region,” Abdul Aziz Ayaaba said.
“If you look at all the countries where we have these issues, there were some constitutional amendments or changes with regards to the term of office of their presidents, that led to all these crises. So, Mr. Chairman, what I would appeal is that all ECOWAS States or all the countries in the community must go by the charter of democracy; we must stick to whatever our constitution is saying. When your term of office is over, you just need to hand over peacefully, so that development and peace will continue,” he added.
Abdul Aziz Ayaaba underscored the significance of respecting constitutional provisions and peaceful transitions of power to uphold stability and progress in the region.
In the aftermath of an extraordinary summit of ECOWAS heads of state in Abuja, Nigeria, the regional bloc announced the lifting of sanctions imposed on Guinea and Niger. This decision comes after similar action was taken regarding military-led Niger the day before.
Additionally, ECOWAS lifted restrictions on the recruitment of citizens from Mali to professional positions within its institutions. These sanctions were initially imposed on Niger, Guinea, Mali, and Burkina Faso due to military coups in those countries between 2020 and last year.
In a statement on Saturday, ECOWAS instructed the president of the commission to invite all four transitional member states to participate in technical, consultative, and security-related meetings.
Furthermore, ECOWAS urged Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger to reconsider their decision to withdraw from the organization.
During the summit, ECOWAS heads of state also ordered the reopening of land borders with Niger and lifted asset freezes against Niger’s ruling generals on humanitarian grounds.
Analysts interpret these decisions as ECOWAS’s commitment to ensuring that junta-led nations remain members of the organization.
The Onion Sellers Association of Ghana has reassured the public regarding concerns over a potential increase in onion prices due to Niger’s withdrawal from the Economic Community of West African States.
Despite worries of price hikes and shortages, onion prices have remained stable. Mr. Ali Umar, Public Relations Officer for the association, emphasized in an exclusive interview with the Ghana News Agency (GNA) that onions continue to be sold at previous market prices across various outlets in Accra and nationwide.
“We want to assure Ghanaians that there has not been any blockade in Niger to necessitate a price increment or shortage. Right now, everything is going smoothly, and all is well.
“We have enough onions to supply the country right now, so there is no problem. We are fully aware of Niger’s exit from ECOWAS, but it has not affected onion supply in any way,” he said.
In a joint communiqué on January 28, 2024, Niger, Mali, and Burkina Faso announced their withdrawal from the sub-regional body, citing various reasons such as the bloc’s deviation from its core objectives and perceived influence from foreign powers.
Experts have cautioned about the possibility of a food crisis in nations dependent on exports from these three countries.
Mr. Umar provided assurance to Ghanaians that onion prices would remain steady, countering misleading claims of an imminent blockade. Last year, ECOWAS initially sanctioned Niger in July, resulting in increased prices of onions and other agricultural products imported from the country.
The Onion Sellers Association of Ghana has reassured the public regarding concerns over a potential increase in onion prices due to Niger’s withdrawal from the Economic Community of West African States.
Despite worries of price hikes and shortages, onion prices have remained stable. Mr. Ali Umar, Public Relations Officer for the association, emphasized in an exclusive interview with the Ghana News Agency (GNA) that onions continue to be sold at previous market prices across various outlets in Accra and nationwide.
“We want to assure Ghanaians that there has not been any blockade in Niger to necessitate a price increment or shortage. Right now, everything is going smoothly, and all is well.
“We have enough onions to supply the country right now, so there is no problem. We are fully aware of Niger’s exit from ECOWAS, but it has not affected onion supply in any way,” he said.
In a joint communiqué on January 28, 2024, Niger, Mali, and Burkina Faso announced their withdrawal from the sub-regional body, citing various reasons such as the bloc’s deviation from its core objectives and perceived influence from foreign powers.
Experts have cautioned about the possibility of a food crisis in nations dependent on exports from these three countries.
Mr. Umar provided assurance to Ghanaians that onion prices would remain steady, countering misleading claims of an imminent blockade. Last year, ECOWAS initially sanctioned Niger in July, resulting in increased prices of onions and other agricultural products imported from the country.
Director of Academic Affairs and Research at the Kofi Annan International Peacekeeping Training Centre, Professor Kwesi Aning, has highlighted what he views as a significant threat to the stability of the remaining members of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS).
During an interview on JoyNews’ PM Express, Professor Aning stressed the critical lack of understanding among ECOWAS states regarding the shifting dynamics in the sub-region, the expectations of their populations, and the constitutional challenges surrounding elections.
He specifically noted that three states—Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger—have indicated intentions to withdraw from the regional union, suggesting that they might navigate the changing dynamics successfully.
“The coastal states of ECOWAS were more willing to listen to their masters from outside the sub-region and listen to the bogus analysis from elsewhere that the terrorists were coming. Coming from where?” Professor Aning questioned, stressing the need for a more nuanced understanding of the situation.
Security Expert and Senior UN Mediation Advisor, Dr. Emmanuel Bombande, echoing Professor Aning’s sentiments, stressed that these states indeed harbor genuine intentions to break away from the regional union.
However, he proposed that preventive measures and diplomatic dialogues could potentially reverse these intentions.
Dr. Bombande pointed out a flaw in the strategies pursued by the coastal states, noting that they were primarily focused on preventing the southward spread of terrorism, rather than addressing the root causes of instability in the Sahel states.
“The intention is genuine because we saw it coming and the attitude of the rest of West Africa particularly the coastal states was to innovate the initiatives that would halt the spread of terrorism from coming southward.
“This simply means that as long as terrorism stayed in the Sahel states it was okay. I think those strategies were fundamentally flawed and that is the genesis of the conversation among the Sahel states who said to themselves “let’s see one another as people whose destinies must be taken by us because our counterparts in West Africa are abandoning us.””
The Commission of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has expressed concerns about the decision by Senegalese authorities to indefinitely postpone the presidential elections, which were initially scheduled for February 25, 2024.
President Macky Sall cited a dispute over the candidate list (electoral roll) as the reason for the postponement.
The Constitutional Council in Senegal had excluded some opposition candidates’ names from the candidate list in January, leading to concerns about the credibility of the electoral process.
“I will initiate an open national dialogue to bring together the conditions for a free, transparent and inclusive election in a peaceful and reconciled Senegal,” President Sall said.
In a communiqué issued by the Commission of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) on February 3, 2024, in Abuja, Nigeria, the commission expressed concern about the circumstances that led to the postponement of the Senegalese presidential elections.
ECOWAS urged the authorities in Senegal to expedite processes for setting a new date for the elections. Additionally, the commission called on the entire political class to prioritize dialogue and collaboration to ensure transparent, inclusive, and credible elections.
“The Commission of the Economic Community of West African States takes note of the decision that the Senegalese authorities have taken to postpone the presidential elections scheduled to take place on 25 February 2024. The ECOWAS Commission expresses concern over the circumstances that have led to the postponement of the elections and appeals to the competent authorities to expedite the various processes in order to set a new date for the elections.”
The ECOWAS Commission applauded outgoing President Macky Sall for adhering to his earlier decision not to seek re-election.
Nigeria’s President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the chairman of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) is yet to call for a meeting among member states to discuss the recent exit of Mali, Niger and Burkina Faso from the bloc.
This information was disclosed by Ghana’s President Akufo-Addo, who expressed regret over the unfortunate decision made by Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso to withdraw their membership.
Currently under military rule, these countries have stated that ECOWAS has become obsolete and does not align with their interests.
As the former ECOWAS Chair, President Akufo-Addo noted that this decision would have repercussions for the citizens of those nations.
He mentioned that discussions were pending to assess the consequences of their withdrawal and determine the next steps forward.
“This unfortunate decision by Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger to withdraw from the ECOWAS community is going to be very negative for the populations there. But ECOWAS is yet to meet. It happened on Sunday, and we are waiting for a signal from the head, Nigerian President Tinubu, to indicate the time when we will have a summit to examine the implications of what has happened and the way forward for the community,” he is quoted to have said by CitiNews.
President Akufo-Addo did not explicitly state what these three countries stand to lose. Being a member of ECOWAS has its advantages. Hence, it is fair to conclude that no longer being a part means one may or can no longer enjoy such privileges.
Some benefits of being a member of ECOWAS include reduced tariffs and quotas, facilitating the flow of goods and services within the region, and free movement of people across member states.
His Excellency Boniface Gambila, Ghana’s Ambassador to Burkina Faso, has dismissed assertions implying that Burkina Faso’s exit from the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) would strain the ties between the two neighboring countries.
Ambassador Gambila underscored that despite Burkina Faso’s decision to withdraw from ECOWAS due to dissatisfaction with the regional body’s management of critical issues, the personal and diplomatic connections between the leaders of Ghana and Burkina Faso remain strong.
He expressed confidence that Burkina Faso’s departure from ECOWAS would not result in adverse trade implications for Ghana. Ambassador Gambila cited the enduring closeness between the two presidents and the deep historical bond shared by the nations as factors ensuring the resilience of diplomatic and trade relations.
“Our two presidents are very close, and historically, the fact that we are brothers and sisters, this would not affect us. I am very optimistic. Don’t let any security analyst sit back there and frighten you. There would be nothing of the sort,” Ambassador Gambila affirmed in an interview with Bolgatanga-based A1 Radio.
The withdrawal of Burkina Faso, alongside Mali and Niger, from ECOWAS was motivated by grievances over what they deemed as unfair treatment by the regional organization.
Despite concerns voiced by certain international trade experts about the potential adverse effects of these exits on trade and diplomatic relations, Ambassador Gambila brushed aside such notions. He affirmed the enduring strength of the Ghana-Burkina Faso relationship in the face of regional transformations.
An Analyst with the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) and African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), Emmanuel K. Bensah, has criticized the recent decision by Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger to withdraw from ECOWAS, describing it as an imprudent move.
Bensah believes that the timing for these countries to exit the organization is not ideal, citing potential logistical challenges that may arise as a result.
Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger, currently governed by military regimes that ousted civilian leaders, officially announced their decision to break away from ECOWAS on January 28, 2024.
In a joint statement issued on that day, the countries expressed regret and disappointment, stating, “After 49 years, the valiant peoples of Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger regretfully and with great disappointment observe that the (ECOWAS) organization has drifted from the ideals of its founding fathers and the spirit of Pan-Africanism.”
They asserted that ECOWAS had not provided support to these nations in their fight against terrorism and insecurity.
“Indeed, the organization has not provided assistance to our States in the context of our existential fight against terrorism and insecurity; worse, when these States decided to take their destiny into their own hands, it adopted an irrational and unacceptable posture by imposing illegal, illegitimate, inhumane, and irresponsible sanctions in violation of its texts; all things which have further weakened populations already bruised by years of violence imposed by instrumentalized and remote-controlled terrorist hordes.”
The statement further criticized the organization for imposing what they deemed as illegal, illegitimate, inhumane, and irresponsible sanctions when the countries decided to take control of their destinies.
However, in an interview with Umaru Sanda Amadu on Eyewitness News on Citi FM on January 29, 2024, Bensah highlighted the drawbacks of the decision.
“Now these three countries would no longer enjoy the visa-free ration in West Africa. They will now need to apply for Visas to enter Ghana and other ECOWAS countries. Now, what about Malians who are in Ghana, they will no longer be ECOWAS citizens.”
“Malians who are in any other ECOWAS country, they will no longer be ECOWAS citizens, they will not be treated as such. They will now have to apply as if they are aliens to the ECOWAS community.”
He emphasized that citizens of these countries would now face limitations, needing to apply for visas to enter Ghana and other ECOWAS countries. This departure would also mean that Malians and citizens of the other countries would lose their ECOWAS citizenship privileges.
Bensah suggested that a more constructive approach would have been for the countries to engage in dialogue with ECOWAS, expressing their concerns about the treatment they received, rather than opting for withdrawal. He urged the countries to reconsider their decision.
They said they wanted to make things safe before holding elections, so they made a deal to help each other. This deal is called the Alliance of Sahel States.
They say Ecowas is being controlled by other countries and not doing enough to stop the terrorist attacks in their countries.
On Monday, it was reported that 22 people were killed in a suspected terrorist attack on a village in Niger near the Mali border. A person in charge of the area said some people came to Motagatta in Tillaberi on motorcycles and began shooting at the residents.
Pulling out will be tough because the community promises to let people travel without a visa and live and work in member countries. That’s what AFP news agency found in their analysis.
Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger were some of the first countries to join Ecowas almost 50 years ago.
The three countries and Ecowas were not getting along well after coups happened in Niger in July, Burkina Faso in 2022 and Mali in 2020. Ecowas asked the three countries to go back to being ruled by civilians.
Nigeria’s foreign ministry said that the three countries left without good intentions and criticized their military leaders.
“Leaders who were not chosen by the people are pretending to oppose their people’s right to make important decisions about their freedom to move, trade, and choose their own leaders,” it said.
The ministry also said that Nigeria, which is the largest member of Ecowas and is Niger’s main economic partner, still wants to talk with the three countries.
Last week, Burkina Faso said it got 25,000 tons of wheat for free from Russia. Russia also opened its embassy there again in December. The embassy had been closed when the Soviet Union fell apart.
Russia has been trying to make new friends in Africa and other places because Western countries are angry at them for fighting in Ukraine.
However, there are many important countries trying to gain power and influence in Africa, such as China, India, Turkey, the Gulf states, South Korea, Western nations, and Japan.
The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has responded to the recent declarations of Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger regarding their exit from the community.
Despite not receiving formal notifications, ECOWAS emphasizes the importance of the three Member States and is resolute in seeking negotiated solutions to address their political challenges.
The departure announcement by Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger on Sunday, citing concerns about ECOWAS deviating from its founding principles and Pan-African spirit, prompted ECOWAS to issue a communiqué.
In this statement, ECOWAS reaffirms its commitment to collaborating with the departing nations to restore constitutional order, following directives from the Authority of Heads of State and Government.
ECOWAS underscores the continued significance of Burkina Faso, Niger, and Mali as integral members, even amid their current governance under military authorities.
The organization expresses its dedication to finding a resolution to the political impasse and remains committed to strengthening ties with these nations.
The Oil Palm Development Association of Ghana (OPDAG) has expressed deep concern over the growing incidence of smuggling of oil palm products into the country. Despite numerous complaints to designated authorities, President of OPDAG, Samuel Avaala, disclosed that smugglers are utilizing unapproved routes and exploiting the ECOWAS Trade Liberalisation Scheme to intensify their activities.
Mr. Avaala lamented that a policy designed by the president last year to combat oil palm smuggling has not been effectively enforced. The Association estimates that the economy loses approximately US$40 million annually due to the smuggling of finished oil palm products from Togo through various entry points in the Upper East and West Regions.
Smuggled products entering the market are priced lower, evading all taxes and duties, creating an unfair trading field that disproportionately benefits the smugglers while adversely affecting local manufacturers.
Highlighting the potential consequences, Mr. Avaala emphasized that without urgent action by authorities, numerous jobs, including those of out-grower farmers, are at risk as local producers may be forced to reduce operations or shut down.
Customs enforcement of the anti-smuggling policy, in collaboration with district security checkpoints across the country, was identified as a crucial measure to curb the ongoing smuggling activities.
Ghana ranks as the third-largest palm oil producer in West Africa, following Nigeria and Ivory Coast. The domestic consumption of refined palm oil is around 300,000 metric tonnes per annum, valued at GH¢1.3 billion. Current local production stands at approximately 120,000 metric tonnes, with imports at 150,000 metric tonnes per annum valued at US$271 million.
With local demand expected to rise, industry players are urging the government to support the sector to realize its full potential in contributing to the economy. The local oil palm industry directly employs about 50,000 people at the plantation level.
Apart from the smuggling challenge, the sector faces issues such as over 70 percent of production being in the hands of small-scale producers, and oil extraction and processing being largely carried out by small artisanal millers. The use of limited technology results in lower oil extraction rates and higher fiber content in waste.
OPDAG advocates for intensified efforts to increase production levels by at least 50 percent, emphasizing the need for the adoption of best practices at the farm and mill levels.
I was taken aback on the evening of 9 January 2009 when my principal, the late President Umaru Musa Yar’Adua asked, “Who is Prophet Joshua?” I wasn’t sure how to respond in case the late cleric had been recommended to him. Apparently sensing my unease, he explained what led to the question. Following the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) meeting which ended that day, he (Yar’Adua) had asked then president of Ghana, Professor John Atta Mills, to stay the night in Abuja so they could have dinner together. But the man insisted he would spend the weekend in Lagos with the said Prophet. “I have not heard the name before,” the president told me while reeling out the names of prominent Christian clerics in the country with whom he was familiar. With that, I felt comfortable enough to share what I had read and heard about the late Pastor Temitope Joshua whom I never met.
What I found remarkable about the episode was that Atta Mills had only been sworn in as Ghanaian president five days before arriving Abuja for the ECOWAS session. Yet, he chose to spend the first weekend of his tenure in Lagos to attend The Synagogue Church of all Nations (SCOAN) thanksgiving service. “I am no stranger to the Synagogue. Indeed, I have been here very regularly. And I have known the man of God for more than 10 years,” late Atta Mills told the congregation on Sunday 11 January 2009 while crediting his victory at the polls to Joshua’s prediction. And we are talking about a professor of law who obtained his LLM from the London School of Economics and Political Science and PhD at 27 from the School of Oriental and African Studies. “Now, if there is anybody who does not believe in God, I would say our elections should change that person’s mind. God gave us more than we asked for,” enthused Atta Mills who then faced Joshua, “Man of God, I want to thank the Almighty for using you and many others.”
From the late President Frederick Chiluba of Zambia to the recently ousted President Omar Bongo of Gabon, to former President Joyce Banda of Malawi, to South African Zulu King Goodwill Zwelithini, to the late former Zimbabwean Prime Minister, Morgan Tsvangirai, numerous African leaders (political and traditional) placed great faith in the late Joshua as their spiritual mentor. However, a new documentary by the British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC) has, to put it mildly, painted a rather unflattering profile of the cleric. Since the serious allegations are already in the public domain, I see no point in repeating them here.
Although SCOAN has issued a rebuttal, arguing that the BBC turned “itself into a weapon for a hatchet job as gangsters in the garb of journalism with a destructive ulterior motive for personal gains against a perceived enemy”, the only official line in the documentary is that most of the allegations now being peddled were also levelled against Joshua when he was alive, and none was proven. That may not be entirely correct. In September 2014, for instance, there was a building collapse at the SCOAN headquarters in Lagos that claimed several lives, mostly foreigners. Following the tragedy, the late Joshua told tales of how he received a call that a mysterious aircraft was hovering over his prayer room before getting another call shortly after “that the jet has moved to the church and that was it.” Not only was his claim disputed, but the Lagos State Coroner’s Inquest also indicted the church leadership for “criminal negligence” and recommended prosecution for the death of 116 persons. 84 of those unfortunate victims were South Africans, 22 were Nigerians, two each were Beninoise and Togolese and one, Zimbabwean. The nationalities of five could not be ascertained. According to the Coroner’s Court, presided over by Chief Magistrate Oyetade Komolafe, the Church did not obtain the necessary permit or approval before commencing construction of the building.
I am aware that the late Joshua means many things to many people. And I have seen some pushback against the BBC for airing the documentary. Incidentally, Pastor Chris Okotie of the Household of God had openly challenged Joshua’s doctrines and practices when he was alive, so controversy had always swirled around the man. My sister, Dr Abimbola Adelakun of the University of Texas, Austin, United States, also wrote several uncomplimentary articles about Joshua and his ministry. Now that he is late, what is being imputed by the BBC are serious crimes not only against Nigerians but also foreigners. It is therefore in the interest of our country, and SCOAN itself, that the allegations be fully investigated. It is also important to stress that until then, the late Joshua remains innocent in the eyes of the law.
However, we should all be concerned about the role of religion in Nigeria. In September 2019, as many as 300 chained inmates, including children, were rescued by thepolice from the‘Sheikh Ahmad Bin Hambal Islamic School and Rehabilitation Centre’ in Kaduna State. It was a story that caught global attention as survivors shared sordid tales of torture, sexual exploitation and bestiality. Today, nobody knows what has happened to those hapless victims and there is no report that anyone has been brought to justice for the heinous crime against humanity. Four years ago, Dr Hadiza Kere Abdulrahman, a lecturer in Inclusive Education, Bishop Grosseteste University, United Kingdom, used the sordid Kaduna spectacle to explain the socio-political dynamics in Nigeria and the lessons we have all refused to learn.
According to Abdulrahman, “the abuse found in these so-called ‘Qur’anic schools’ is replicated in several other contexts in Nigeria—in homes with people hired as domestic help being whipped for minor misdemeanors.” Such abuse, she further stated “is also replicated in other religious establishments where people are taken for deliverance, in Nigeria’s prison system where everything goes, and in government boarding schools which can sometimes be brutal. This abuse is seen even in the few government-owned rehabilitation facilities where inmates are shackled.” She then concluded: “It would be a mighty shame—and a missed opportunity—if Nigerians didn’t use the opportunity of the horror stories to take a hard look at themselves.” Of course, no lessons were learnt from that tragic episode and many already believe that the BBC documentary on Joshua may also compel no action. Yet, this should be another teachable moment. Just yesterday, Daily Trust newspaper published an investigative report on one Hassan Patigi, a preacher and exorcist who draws huge crowds in Kwara and Niger States where he abuses and defrauds the sick people he claims to be healing.
Since African culture frowns at speaking ill of the dead, it is understandable that some would question the motive of the BBC in running a documentary on Joshua who can no longer defend himself. But those who follow the media outfit, and its crime investigation series, know there is nothing unusual about this episode. ‘The Reckoning: the horrendous true story behind the Jimmy Savile case’ for instance details allegations of sexual abuse against British television personality Jimmy Savile. It was only after his death in 2011 that numerous allegations emerged about his predatory behaviour, hence the posthumous documentary. Similarly, ‘House of Maxwell: Like Father, Like Daughter’ is about Ghislaine Maxwell, currently in jail for helping American billionaire, Jeffrey Epstein (who committed suicide in detention) to sexually abuse teenage girls. She is the daughter of the deceased (and disgraced) newspaper tycoon Robert Maxwell.
Because the BBC documentary on Joshua is a media investigation, it does not on its own convict of guilt. But the allegations deserve to be properly investigated by appropriate authorities for the good of society. Beyond that, it is also important for the leadership of both the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) and Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria (PFN) to be interested in this matter. There have in recent times been many reports of unwholesome practices by people who claim to be Christian clerics of various denominations. Many of the reports border on abuse of their members. Some are told to eat grass. Some are stamped upon. Some, especially female members, are made to unclothe before clerics who openly fondle their private parts. Tales of midnight ‘deliverances’ that end in bed abound. All these in the name of performing ‘miracles’ by perverts who prey on the ignorance and desperation of our people.
This of course is not a new phenomenon, and the challenge is global. Literature that readers may find useful include ‘Soft Shepherd or Almighty Pastor: Power and Pastoral Care’ by Annemie Dillen and Cristina Traina’s ‘A Wolf in Sheep’s Clothing: Dealing Honestly with Pastoral Power’. Triana, whose thesis focuses on “the undeniable power of many kinds—social, ecclesial, and psychological, among others—that resides with the pastor,” argues that the unequal power relationship imposes both a measure of responsibility and duty of care. “When a person enters a church or a church-related environment and seeks direct help from and relationship with a pastor, in a very visceral way, God has been called into the conversation, too, and for some of the most broken persons, the minister’s words and God’s words become one and the same.”
What the BBC documentary has shown quite clearly is that healthy boundaries must be set between clerics and members of their congregations. And that is where the problem lies in Nigeria. As we can see from other areas of our national life, boundary violations derive from unequal powers and to the extent that these dynamics are now very prevalent in the church, we must begin to deal with them.
Overall, regardless of what anybody may believe concerning the allegations against Joshua, four critical issues have been raised. First is how easy it is for religion to mask sundry violations of human rights. Second is an unfortunate anachronism about our society. A supposedly modern nation based on rational principles is still chained to primordial superstitions and practices, patronized openly by those in power and the guardians of civic morality and conduct.
And because of that, human rituals, recourse to strange ‘prayer sessions’, seeking occult solutions to basic human problems or health afflictions requiring simple medical cures, etc. are now the order of the day. Third, in Nigeria today, religion and politics continue to meet and mix. It is therefore little surprise that so-called men of God use the power of belief to chain their followers to degrading abuses just as spurious politicians hoodwink the poor and helpless to steal the commonwealth. Four, in a system where powerful people permit themselves the indulgence of operating above the law, those who are supposed to set examples for the rest of society can only end up as outlaws. When that happens, we are all losers.
To change the narrative, we must begin to hold people in power—whether it be in the political, academic, business or religious realm—accountable for their actions.
Justice Edward Amoako Asante, the President of the ECOWAS Court of Justice, paid a courtesy call on the Chief Justice of Ghana, Her Ladyship Justice Gertrude Araba Esaaba Sackey Torkornoo.
During the visit, Justice Asante congratulated Ghana’s Chief Justice on her recent appointment and discussed matters of mutual interest between the ECOWAS Court and Ghana’s judiciary.
The two judicial leaders expressed their commitment to collaborative efforts to strengthen the rule of law and protect human rights in the subregion.
Discussions also touched on the domestication of regional human rights instruments and the need for legal integration in the subregion.
The meeting ended with an exchange of paraphernalia between the ECOWAS Court and the Ghana Judicial Service. Senior judges from Ghana’s judiciary were also present at the meeting.
The United Nations Security Council has adopted a resolution led by Ghana, emphasizing support and funding for operations addressing threats to international peace and security in Africa.
This Peace Support funding model goes beyond traditional UN peacekeeping operations.
Under the resolution, AU-led peace support operations mandated by the UN Security Council will receive up to 75% of their annual budgets from UN assessed contributions.
The remaining amount will be jointly mobilized by the UN and the African Union from the international community as extra-budgetary resources.
The Council commits to considering viable options in case of significant shortfalls in resource mobilization. Ghana submitted the resolution with other African countries on the Security Council.
The goal is to change the traditional response to peace and security in Africa, especially concerning violent extremism and terrorism. Ghana aims to achieve these goals within its two-year term as a non-permanent member of the UN Security Council.
The resolution emphasizes addressing socio-economic and climatic root causes of conflicts in addition to military operations.
“The dramatic outcome of the complex and difficult negotiations comes 10 days before the end of Ghana’s term as a non-permanent member of the UN Security Council,“ said the release.
ECOWAS and regional security initiatives, such as the Accra Initiative and the Multi National Joint Task Force, may benefit from the resources and international support to combat terrorism and violent extremism in the ECOWAS region.
“When Ghana announced its priorities at the beginning of its term in January 2022 to secure agreement of the Security Council to change its traditional response to international peace and security, especially in Africa, where violent extremism and terrorism had overtaken traditional conflicts that attracted UN peacekeeping, many had expressed skepticism.”
The Minister for Foreign Affairs and Regional Integration, Shirley Ayorkor Botchwey, declared the adoption of the resolution as a great day for Africa and diplomacy.
“Attempts in the past to agree on the use of UN assessed contributions to support African-led operations had failed in the face of opposition from some Permanent Members of the Council and other large contributors to the UN.”
The resolution aims to end threats to international peace and security in the region and promote peace, stability, and progress through successful peace support operations.
“One key objective was to starve terrorists of conditions for radicalisation and recruitment from vulnerable communities,” the release emphasised.
“With the adoption of the framework resolution, it is understood that the plans of ECOWAS and relevant security initiatives in our region, such as the Accra Initiative and the Multi National Joint Task Force, battling Boko Haram, will potentially benefit from the needed resources and international support to defeat terrorism and violent extremism in the ECOWAS region.”
“Working with our partners around the world, we have taken a giant step to end the many threats to international peace and security in our region.
“Our people deserve the peace, stability and progress that successful peace support operations will bring. The distractions to our regional integration project and the pressure on development resources from our security needs would ease as we go forward.
“I congratulate President Akufo-Addo for his leadership. I also commend our team in NewYork, my own Ministry and the Multi-Stakeholder Working Group on the United Nations Security Council, which I set up to advise me.”
The transparency of the Akufo-Addo/Bawumia government has been brought into question by the Member of Parliament for North Tongu, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, regarding financial assistance for the victims of the Akosombo Dam spillage.
In a tweet, Mr Ablakwa shared intercepted documents from the ECOWAS Commission, revealing that Ghana had received a substantial amount of US$200,000.00 (GHS2.4 million) in support from ECOWAS.
This information, according to the MP, was not disclosed to Parliament or the Ghanaian public.
Expressing his concerns, Mr Ablakwa questioned why the government concealed its additional application to ECOWAS for financial support for the Akosombo Dam spillage flood victims.
“Why has the Akufo-Addo/Bawumia government concealed from Parliament and the Ghanaian people that they had additionally applied to ECOWAS for financial support for the Akosombo dam spillage flood victims?”
The intercepted documents from the ECOWAS Commission disclosed the approval of financial aid following Ghana’s application, adding complexity to the government’s financial narrative.
“When Finance Minister, Ken Ofori-Atta, presented the 2024 Budget on November 15, 2023, he only disclosed government’s applications to the World Bank and the Global Shield Against Climate Risk Fund,” the MP remarked.
Ablakwa pointed out a timeline discrepancy in the government’s disclosures, noting that during the presentation of the 2024 Budget on November 15, 2023, Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta only mentioned applications to the World Bank and the Global Shield Against Climate Risk Fund, omitting the ECOWAS application.
Referring to specific sections of the budget, Ablakwa highlighted paragraphs 29 and 30 on page 5, which exclusively mentioned the World Bank and the Global Shield Against Climate Risk Fund.
He emphasized that the ECOWAS application had been made two weeks before the budget presentation, as evidenced by the intercepted documents. Ablakwa assured that the National Democratic Congress (NDC) Caucus in Parliament would demand full disclosure and total accountability on all government requests for funding submitted to international organizations.
The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) Commission has declared the suspension of Niger from the regional organization.
The decision, disclosed by the Commission, marks an unprecedented turn of events, raising questions about the circumstances leading to the suspension and its potential ramifications for diplomatic relations within the West African community.
Their suspension came into effect on December 10, 2023, coinciding with the 64th Ordinary Session of the Heads of States.
In a press release, the commission clarified that up until their latest session, the government of Mohamed BAZOUM, who was ousted from office by his guards five months ago, was still officially recognized.
“Until the 64th Ordinary Session of the Authority of ECOWAS Heads of State and Government which took place on 10 December 2023, the Authority of the Heads of State and Government considered the situation in the Republic of Niger as an attempted coup, and H.E. Mohamed BAZOUM as the President and Head of State of the Republic of Niger.”
“That position meant that Niger was not suspended from ECOWAS decision-making bodies and that members of BAZOUM’s government could represent.”
However, his removal from office was officially admitted on December 10
“Therefore, from 10 December 2023, Niger stands suspended from all decision-making bodies of ECOWAS until the restoration of constitutional order in the country,” it announced.
President BAZOUM was overthrown on July 26, 2023, by members of his own presidential guard led by Colonel-Major Amadou Abdramane.
Ultimatums for the President to be reinstated by ECOWAS and the West fell on deaf ears.
The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has officially suspended Niger’s membership within the regional bloc.
This decision comes in response to the ruling military junta’s refusal to reinstate the ousted President Mohamed Bazoum, who was removed in a military coup in July.
In a statement released on Thursday, ECOWAS acknowledged that Bazoum’s government had been “effectively overthrown in a military coup” during a recent summit of its leaders in Nigeria.
As a consequence, ECOWAS has suspended Niger from its decision-making bodies until “constitutional order is restored in the country.”
Initially perceived as an attempted coup, the delayed suspension was attributed to the evolving situation in Niger. ECOWAS had earlier imposed sanctions and even contemplated military intervention following the coup.
Former Central Region Chairman of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Bernard Jacobs Allotey, has praised the Member of Parliament (MP) for the Effutu constituency, Kwabena Afenyo-Markin, for his positive impact on Winneba in the Central Region.
During an appearance on Peace FM’s Kokrokoo show, Mr Allotey commended the Deputy Majority Leader in Parliament for his achievements, specifically highlighting his efforts in securing Winneba the host for the ECOWAS parliament.
He drew a contrast with other parliamentarians who, according to him, have left their constituents disappointed by not fulfilling their promises.
Mr Allotey called on Ghanaians to rally behind and applaud Mr Afenyo for his contributions, emphasizing that the MP has transformed Winneba in a relatively short period.
He suggested that Mr Afenyo’s accomplishments should serve as an example for other parliamentarians to emulate.
“Kwabena Afenyo, I knew him when he was very young, he changed the face of Winneba, I wish all parliamentarians would do that. He has made Winneba host ECOWAS parliament twice. People must learn from this young man,” he added.
Serving on both the Defense and Interior Finance Committees in the Ghana Parliament, Afenyo-Markin has a diverse background.
He pursued Law at the University of Buckingham, completing LLB/mgt from 2003 to 2006, followed by a Barrister at Law Cert. from the Ghana School of Law (2007-2009), and an M.A. in International Politics & Security at the University of Bradford (2009-2010).
His professional journey includes roles such as Principal Postal Officer at the Ghana Post Company Limited (1999-2003), Director at Excel Courier Ghana Limited (2004-2011), and an Associate at Dehenya Chambers (2010-2016).
Beyond his legislative responsibilities, Afenyo-Markin has contributed significantly to community initiatives. He spearheaded the One Teacher, One Laptop initiative, resulting in the donation of over 1000 laptops. Launched on October 13th, 2018, the initiative provided 100 laptops to teachers in the Effutuman constituency at the Ebenezer Methodist Church in Winneba. Additionally, 14 libraries were constructed in his constituency, aiming to enhance educational opportunities and foster a reading culture among young people.
On March 7, 2020, Afenyo-Markin further demonstrated his commitment to environmental beautification by planting Royal Palm trees in the capital of Winneba.
In July, Mr Bazoum was removed from power by the military.
Ecowas said in a statement on Thursday that a recent summit of its leaders in Nigeria acknowledged that Mr Bazoum’s government was taken over by the military in a coup.
Niger has been suspended from Ecowas until things are back to normal in the country.
Ecowas thought there was a coup in Niger at first, so they waited before suspending the country.
Ecowas put sanctions and warned of using military force after the coup.
Coordinating Director for Multilateral and International Organizations at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Regional Integration (MFARI), Ambassador Perpetual Dufu, has emphasized that considering coup d’états as a means to address development and governance challenges is inappropriate.
She highlighted that the African continent is experiencing a burgeoning youth population, but the available opportunities do not align, leading to discontent and, at times, fostering conditions conducive to coup d’états.
She, however, said “One thing I can say is that we don’t always have to look for the solution in coup d’état.”
Ambassador Dufu said this in Wa at a stakeholders’ workshop on the Economic Community of West Africa States (ECOWAS) protocol, programmes, and activities organized by the MFARI in collaboration with the Media Response.
The workshop was to offer the participants the opportunity to know and understand the pivotal role that ECOWAS played in the development and integration of the sub-region and the African continent in general.
Ambassador Dufu added that issues of climate change displaced people and the desire for people to change their livelihood and lifestyles had also caused them to move from rural areas into urban areas, which had its accompanying consequences.
“This brings along with its development challenges, and of course when the heat is so much it can result in some of the things we are seeing in our region,” she explained.
She indicated that the ECOWAS regional integration efforts would help promote interaction, trade, and a prosperous economic life for the citizens of the region, which would contribute to reducing those coup d’état-related factors and ensuring peace within the region.
She said people in the region would not be able to access the benefits of the ECOWAS Protocols if they did not have the knowledge and understanding of the extent of the benefits of the protocols that were available to them.
The Ambassador said that was part of the reasons that had made it imperative that all member states should sensitise their citizens to what they stand to gain if those protocols were effectively implemented.
She explained that the ECOWAS protocol had provided for the free movement of goods and persons within the community and the right to establish themselves in member-state countries.
Ambassador Dufu, however, observed that the challenge in the full implementation of that protocol was integrating the protocols into the laws of member states to make it a reality.
“The challenge since this has been in place is that after all these protocols have been agreed member states are to localise it in their own laws and to remove barriers that exist within their legal systems to make this a reality.
In many places, some of the barriers still exist but it’s a work in progress”, she said, and called for the support of the citizens within the community in realising that objective.
Naa Seidu Braimah Nubalanaang, the Paramount Chief of the Guli Traditional Area in the Wala Traditional Council, expressed worry about the growing spate of coup d’états in the West Africa sub-region.
He called on the leadership of the regional bloc to re-examine itself and to put in the appropriate measures to end the coup d’états within the bloc.
“When we meet at the highest levels, we should not just go there to take tea and other things, chat and come back, let’s look at these things.
If sincerely, we had good governance in this part of the world I don’t think that these coup d’états will be happening,” the revered chief said.
Representatives of traditional and religious leaders, Civil Society Organisations, students, security agencies, and the media participated in the workshop.
The President of the Republic, Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, has urged members of the ECOWAS Parliament to address the emerging challenges threatening democracy in the region.
He highlighted three significant threats: the re-militarization of governance, the manipulation of constitutional rules by elites to seize power, and the destructive ambitions of terrorist groups and armed criminal gangs.
President Akufo-Addo emphasized the perilous state of democracy in West Africa, calling for intensified efforts to uphold democratic accountability among citizens.
He decried the subversion of democracy by elites who manipulate constitutional rules to retain power, the re-emergence of the military in politics without a mandate from the people, and the threat posed by terrorist groups and armed criminal gangs seeking to establish lawless zones.
Drawing upon Winston Churchill’s famous quote that “democracy is the worst form of governance, except for all the others,” President Akufo-Addo highlighted the resilience of democracy in the face of tyranny and oppression. He acknowledged the region’s challenging economic, political, social, and security situation, noting a decline in democratic credentials.
Speaking at the 2nd ECOWAS Parliamentary Seminar with the theme “Challenges Relating to Unconstitutional Changes of Government and Presidential Term Limits in West Africa – Role of the ECOWAS Parliament,” President Akufo-Addo expressed concern over military governments in four ECOWAS Member States due to coups, leading to anxiety and regional instability.
He condemned the culture of violence and disputes during elections.
He emphasized the importance of leaders obtaining legitimacy through free, fair, and transparent elections, warning against manipulation of democratic rules for partisan gains, which erodes legitimacy and creates social tensions. President Akufo-Addo called for a focus on achieving free government, shared prosperity, equitable justice, and lasting peace through democratic governance.
He urged ECOWAS legislators to analyze the root causes of democratic regression and political instability in the region, advocate against the extension of presidential term limits used to consolidate power, and prevent discontent that could be exploited by military interventions.
President Akufo-Addo emphasized that regional stability relies on legality and legitimacy combined to ensure the wellbeing of citizens.
President Akufo-Addo has urged the members of the ECOWAS Parliament to vocalize their opposition to the practice of leaders extending presidential term limits as a means to consolidate their authority.
According to President Akufo-Addo, “these actions tend to result in discontent amongst the populace, which create fertile grounds on which military interventions disingenuously feed.”
Adherence to this, he said, will ensure that we don’t “give up when it comes to guaranteeing the democratic integrity of our respective countries, where we should have governance systems based on the separation of powers, which are free from corruption and are respectful of the rule of law, individual liberties, human rights, the principles of democratic accountability and social justice.”
President Akufo-Addo delivered his speech at the 2nd ECOWAS Parliamentary Seminar held in Winneba on Friday, September 29, 2023. The seminar revolved around the theme, “Challenges Relating to Unconstitutional Changes of Government and Presidential Term Limits in West Africa – Role of the ECOWAS Parliament.”
Based on the theme, the President charged them to “propose measures to ensure the anchoring of democratic and republican values, both at the level of political elites and citizens of the Community. This would help towards preserving the peace and stability of the region.”
He suggested that “any attempt at the manipulation of opinion and of the rules of the democratic game for partisan political ends always leads to a loss of legitimacy, which is reflected in the social tensions it creates.”
Continuing, he stated that, “the attempted confiscation of democracy by elites, who engage, through legal antics, in the manipulation of constitutional rules and the subjugation of the institutions of the Republic with the sole aim of remaining in power.”
He opined further that, “it is also important to remind us that democracy is not, as some would have us believe, a western concept, but, rather, a universal concept of general application.”
He asked the August house to ensure there is “no backsliding in support for democratic values anchored on the promotion of the rule of law and respect for human rights.
“And when the coups do happen, we must insist on the shortest period of the transition process, especially in the Sahel, where the military, having tasted power, appear reluctant to restore democratic rule.”
“The history of the world, including that of Africa, testifies that the process of electing and installing leaders in democratic circumstances provides the best form of governance.
“The great British wartime leader, Winston Spencer Churchill, it was who said “democracy is the worst form of governance, except for all the others”.
“Modern history has taught us that tyranny, oppression, and totalitarian government do not last long. No matter how a people apparently reject democracy and civil liberty, circumstances would always force them back to embrace them,” he added.
Concluding, he said, “Out of duty towards our children and grandchildren, we must not give up when it comes to guaranteeing the democratic integrity of our respective countries, where we should have governance systems based on the separation of powers, which are free from corruption and are respectful of the rule of law, individual liberties, human rights, the principles of democratic accountability and social justice.”
A legal case was filed in court on Monday asking for Mr. Bazoum to be freed and made president again. This is because he was arrested without reason and his freedom to move was taken away after the coup in July. His lawyer, Seydou Diagne, said all this.
“We are asking for. ” According to the AFP news agency, someone said that because political rights were violated, Niger should be told to give power to President Bazoum right away. President Bazoum should keep using the power until his term is over.
The military junta is holding his wife and son, and their names are mentioned in the application, according to the Associated Press.
Ecowas said they might use military force if talking doesn’t work to help Mr. Bazoum become the leader again.
Minister for Finance, Ken Ofori-Atta has emphasized the importance of West African leaders to intensify their efforts to steer their economies toward a path of recovery.
During the 50th Meeting of the Convergence Council of Ministers and Governors of the Central Banks of the Member States of the West African Monetary Zone,he asserted, was a crucial step in the realization of the proposed single currency for the region.
‘’it has become imperative for Member States to continue to implement prudent fiscal, monetary and exchange rate policies and adopt policy measures aimed at enhancing domestic revenue mobilization and diversification of our economies’’ he said.
The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) adopted a roadmap for launching a common currency, Eco, in June 2021.
In his view, a single currency programme, and more broadly, the economic integration agenda, had been a long journey, but he hoped the meeting would intensify achievable commitments towards this program.
‘’Given the challenging macroeconomic environment facing ECOWAS the dream to a single currency may seem distant, perhaps even utopian, to some…, but we cannot relent’’ Mr Ofori-Atta assured.
The Minister highlighted a series of significant factors that have played a substantial role in contributing to the macroeconomic imbalances within the sub-region, including the disruptive impact of the Covid-19 pandemic, the Russia-Ukraine War, persistent terrorist threats, instances of military coups, regional fragility, and various other security challenges.
These complexities, he argued, should not be viewed as insurmountable obstacles, especially as the set date for the introduction of the single currency in 2027 approaches.
Mr. Ofori-Atta stressed the imperative of maintaining a steadfast commitment to regional integration while avoiding the adoption of excessively short-term policies in response to the current challenges.
In this regard, he called for the implementation of medium to long-term solutions that would effectively address the adverse economic conditions and lay the necessary foundations for sustainable and inclusive economic growth.
Among the strategies discussed, the Minister highlighted the importance of capitalizing on the progress achieved in trade integration and financial integration, while also charting a clearer and more definitive path toward the realization of the ECO currency for the region.
This approach, he asserted, would be instrumental in overcoming the existing economic imbalances and fostering greater economic stability and prosperity within West Africa.
National Democratic Congress (NDC) , the largest opposition party in Ghana, has called upon the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) to intervene and take action regarding the Electoral Commission of Ghana (EC).
The NDC alleges that the Electoral Commissioner, Jean Adukwei Mensah, is involved in voter suppression by conducting the current Limited Voter Registration Exercise solely at its District Offices across the nation.
During a press conference, Johnson Aseidu Nketiah, the National Chairman of the NDC, stressed the importance of ECOWAS taking proactive measures to protect Ghana’s democracy.
Additionally, he asserted that the ongoing limited voter registration exercise, which began on September 12, 2023, has been marred by numerous irregularities, particularly in areas where the NDC enjoys strong support.
“This irresponsible and unconscionable decision of the commission confirms the NDC’s long-held view that the Jean Mensah-led EC is determined to rig the 2024 elections through voter suppression. But she will fail because we are ready for them.
Aside from its potential to suppress registration and voting, the EC’s decision to restrict voter registration to its district offices can promote and facilitate gerrymandering as agents of political parties will find it difficult to challenge persons who may be bused from one constituency to another to register.
He continued: “Ladies and gentlemen, in addition to theNDC, there are four other political partiesthat are plaintiffs in the instant case at the Supreme Court. And as already indicated, the PNC has also thrown its weight behind the suit.”
