West africa: ECOWAS and un women advance regional gender and green economy program

Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire — A pivotal regional program, integrating gender considerations with climate change strategies and the burgeoning green economy, has been officially validated in Abidjan. This significant endorsement comes from the ECOWAS Centre for Gender Development (CCDG), in close collaboration with UN Women and several expert agencies within the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS).

The validation meeting, held on May 15 and 16 at the ECOWAS Resident Representation in Côte d’Ivoire, was dedicated to finalizing the strategic document for this comprehensive program. Participants also focused on crafting a clear roadmap for its effective implementation across the region.

This groundbreaking initiative is designed to bolster existing regional endeavors aimed at addressing member states’ urgent priorities in gender equality, climate resilience, and the critical ecological transition. Furthermore, it seeks to secure essential funding for the ECOWAS Action Plan on Gender and Climate Change, driving its objectives forward.

Sandra Oulaté Fattoh, the esteemed Director of the CCDG, emphasized the dual nature of the ecological transition for women and girls across West Africa. She highlighted that this transition presents both formidable challenges and considerable opportunities for their empowerment and advancement.

Representing UN Women in Côte d’Ivoire, Resident Representative Adjaratou Fatou Ndiaye remarked that this program signifies a crucial shift from mere political discourse to tangible, concrete action. This move is vital in confronting the pressing climatic and economic challenges facing the West African region today.

Dr. Kalilou Sylla, the ECOWAS Commissioner for Economic Affairs and Agriculture, underscored the absolute necessity of an inclusive green transition. He stressed that such a transition must actively create genuine opportunities for women and youth to participate and thrive.

The final document for this ambitious program is slated for formal adoption during a dedicated working session scheduled to take place from June 29 to July 6, 2026, in Lomé, Togo.