Communication Training for the ECOWAS Stabilization Fund Implementing Partners in Guinea Bissau

On Friday, June 7th, 2024, a specialized communication training was held for the National Implementing Partners (NIPs) of the Fund for Regional Stabilization and Development (FRSD) in Bissau.

The training program provided guidance to the National Implementing Partners on the methodologies and mediums to adopt in introducing the FRSD to different stakeholder groups, as well as messaging and visibility guidelines to utilize to ensure consistent understanding among all stakeholders. The training also aimed to ensure that National Implementing Partners do not only present the FRSD as a sustainable development initiative, but also as a strategic tool of the ECOWAS Commission to build trust between populations and ECOWAS.

Mr. Joel Ayim Darkwah, FRSD Programme Officer, stressed the importance of a comprehensive understanding of the FRSD to effectively communicate and advance its objectives among partners, local governance structures, and the beneficiary populations in Guinea-Bissau.

Participants included representatives from FRSD National Implementing Partners in Guinea Bissau, namely, ASAD, IMVF, CARITAS, and SWISSAID, as well as team members from GIZ, KfW Development Bank, and the ECOWAS Commission.

The training concluded with the distribution of FRSD branded materials to enhance visibility efforts within targeted communities.

In addition, site visits were conducted in the Bafata, Gabu, Bolama, and Quinara regions to monitor the ongoing FRSD investments coordinated by the National Implementing Partners. The mission was concluded with meetings with the Chair of FRSD National Advisory Committee and the ECOWAS Resident Representative in Guinea Bissau, to enhance national level coordination of FRSD activities.