The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) Gender Development Centre (GDC), alongside UN Women and key ECOWAS agencies, has officially endorsed a groundbreaking regional initiative in Abidjan. The programme focuses on integrating gender equality, climate resilience, and the green economy into West Africa’s development agenda.
Finalized during a two-day workshop on 15–16 May at the ECOWAS Resident Mission in Côte d’Ivoire, the initiative aims to sharpen regional strategies that address member states’ urgent priorities in gender equity, climate adaptation, and sustainable economic transitions. It also seeks to unlock financing for the ECOWAS Gender and Climate Action Plan, ensuring tangible support for communities most vulnerable to environmental shifts.
Empowering women and youth through sustainable pathways
During the sessions, leaders emphasized the dual role of ecological transition as both a challenge and an opportunity for women and girls across West Africa. Sandra Oulaté Fattoh, Director of the GDC, highlighted how green initiatives can create new economic avenues while addressing deep-rooted gender disparities in climate-vulnerable sectors.
Adjaratou Fatou Ndiaye, UN Women’s Resident Representative in Côte d’Ivoire, framed the programme as a critical step from policy rhetoric to actionable results. “This is not just about setting goals—it’s about delivering real change for women and girls facing the harshest impacts of climate change,” she stated.
Dr Kalilou Sylla, ECOWAS Commissioner for Economic Affairs and Agriculture, echoed this sentiment, stressing the need for an inclusive green transition. “Women and youth must be at the heart of these efforts. Only through their full participation can we build resilient, equitable economies,” he said.
Next steps: from Abidjan to Lomé
The finalized programme document is set for adoption during a working session scheduled in Lomé, Togo, from 29 June to 6 July 2026. This milestone will mark the transition from planning to implementation, setting the stage for measurable impact across the region.
