The ECOWAS Permanent Mission in The Gambia Commemorated ECOWAS Day 2024 in the Gambia
11 Jun, 2024The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) Day was celebrated with great enthusiasm and commitment in The Gambia on Tuesday 28 May 2024. The event, which marks the 49th Anniversary of the regional organization, brought together government officials, diplomats, civil society representatives, and citizens to reflect on the achievements and future prospects of ECOWAS.
The purpose of the celebration was to commemorate its founding on Friday 28 May 1975 in Lagos, Nigeria. It was also a forum to highlight its achievements, goals, and ongoing efforts towards regional integration and development among others. The celebration, held at the Kairaba Beach Hotel in Senegambia, was graced by the presence of the Resident Representative of the President of ECOWAS Commission who doubles as the Head of Mission (ECOMIG), Her Excellency Miatta Lily French, alongside key dignitaries including Diplomats and Government officials. The day’s events highlighted the theme “Enhancing Regional Unity, Peace and Security.”
In his keynote address, the Minister of Trade, Industry, Regional Integration and Employment of The Gambia, Hon Baboucarr Ousmaila Joof, who was ably represented by the Director of Regional Integration – ECOWAS National Office, Mrs. Ndey Tabara Touray emphasized the need to enhance regional trade and economic integration in West Africa.
He pointed out the significant impact of the African Continental Free Trade Area on boosting trade and advocated for eliminating trade barriers to increase global competitiveness. He also touched on the ECOWAS Regional Stabilization and Development Fund’s pilot project in The Gambia which focuses on fostering sustainable development through economic opportunities and infrastructure development, particularly targeting youth and women, and the gains made so far. The Executive Director, ECOWAS Regional Competition Authority, who was represented by the Human Resource Officer, Mr Ebrima Tambajang, emphasized important initiatives for regional integration and economic development within ECOWAS.
He reaffirmed ERCA’s dedication to fostering regional integration and economic growth by enforcing competition laws. Additionally, he encouraged ongoing cooperation among member states to successfully implement the ECOWAS Regional Competition Policy and improve the region’s economic welfare.
The celebrations featured a vibrant cultural dance showcase, with performances from local traditional dance troupes, symbolizing the rich cultural diversity of West Africa. Various dishes were prepared and shared by Member States Embassies/Consulates to showcase their talents in the preparation of different foods.
ECOWAS Day 2024 in The Gambia was a testament to the enduring spirit of unity and cooperation among West African nations. It served as a reminder of the collective strength and shared aspirations that drive the region towards a more prosperous and peaceful future, which is in tandem with the ECOWAS Vision 2050. The ECOWAS Permanent Mission in The Gambia looks forward to the commemoration of the 50th Anniversary (Golden Jubilee) of ECOWAS on 28th May 2025.
