West African nations have taken a significant step towards bolstering regional stability and resilience by adopting the Regional Stability Strategy 2024-2050. This ambitious strategy, developed through a collaborative effort involving ECOWAS Member States, civil society, and development partners, aims to address vulnerabilities and pave the way for a more secure and lasting future for the region.
pillars: inclusive governance, economic sustainability, social inclusion and environmental resilience.” width=”310″ height=”207″ class=”wp-image-22312″ />“This strategy marks the beginning of a transformative journey for West Africa,” said Alan ASANKPON, highlighting the strategy’s potential to strengthen regional unity, reduce risks, and create a more secure and sustainable future.
The strategy, finalized at a high-level ministerial meeting in Abidjan, focuses on six key areas: good governance, peace and security, macroeconomic resilience, sustainable livelihoods, social protection and resilience, gender sensitivity and social inclusion, and climate change and disaster risk reduction.
“The experts worked intensively for three days to update the document, which was reviewed and adopted,” said Jacques Konan ASSAHORÉ, Minister of Environment, Sustainable Development and Ecological Transition in the Republic of Côte d’ivoire. He emphasized the importance of regional cooperation in building resilience to climate change, sharing experiences, and accelerating an integrated community approach.
The strategy prioritizes a collaborative approach,integrating national and regional initiatives. It is indeed built on four main pillars: inclusive governance, economic sustainability, social inclusion, and environmental resilience.
Fatou Sow SARR, ECOWAS Commissioner for Human Development and Social Affairs, outlined the implementation plans, including the development of an operational coordination plan, resource allocation, and the adaptation of continental initiatives like the African Urban resilience Programme (AURP) and the Many Africa – Hazard Early Warning and Action System (AMHEWAS).
Gaël OLLIVIER, UNDP Deputy Resident Representative in Côte d’Ivoire, commended the strategy’s ambition, stressing the need to integrate climate action into development plans, promote sustainable livelihoods, restore ecosystems, and secure funding for climate change mitigation efforts. He expressed gratitude to Sweden and Denmark for their support through the Sahel Resilience Project and the UNDP Climate Security Programme.
Professor Nentawe YILWATDA, Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and poverty Alleviation of the Federal republic of Nigeria, and Chairman of the Ministerial Meeting, underscored the commitment to addressing pressing regional challenges, including climate change, food insecurity, and the lingering effects of conflict and pandemics.”This strategy reflects our shared vision for a resilient West Africa and highlights the urgency of protecting lives, livelihoods, and decades of progress,” he stated.
The adoption of the Regional Stability Strategy 2024-2050 is a significant milestone for West Africa, signaling a collective commitment to building a more resilient and prosperous future for the region.
West Africa stands on the cusp of a new era, poised for significant transformation. Leaders from across the region have committed to concrete actions that will bolster unity, address shared challenges, and unlock opportunities for generations to come.
“This marks the beginning of a transformative journey for West Africa,” a regional leader declared. “Concrete actions will now continue to strengthen regional unity, mitigate risks and create opportunities for future generations.”
The commitment to action follows a period of intense dialog and collaboration among West African nations.Details regarding the specific initiatives and their implementation timelines are expected to be unveiled in the coming weeks.
This renewed focus on regional cooperation comes at a critical juncture for West Africa. the region faces a complex array of challenges, including economic instability, security threats, and the impacts of climate change. By working together, West African nations aim to build a more resilient and prosperous future for all.
The international community is closely watching these developments, recognizing the importance of a stable and thriving West Africa. The region’s success will have ripple effects far beyond its borders, contributing to global security and economic growth.
## Interview: West Africa Takes Bold Step towards Regional Stability with New Strategy
**World-Today-News.com:** The recent adoption of the Regional Stability Strategy 2024-2050 by West African nations marks a decisive step towards addressing the regionS complex challenges. Today, we have the privilege of speaking with **Alan ASANKPON**, a leading expert in regional security and growth, to delve deeper into the significance of this strategy and its potential impact.
**WTN:** Mr. AsankPON, could you elaborate on the core objectives of the Regional Stability Strategy? What are the key issues it aims to address?
**ASANKPON:** This strategy is a game-changer. It’s built on the recognition that enduring peace and prosperity in West Africa require a multi-faceted approach.We’re dealing with a confluence of challenges – weak governance, vulnerability to economic shocks, social inequalities exacerbated by climate change, and persistent threats to security.
The strategy directly tackles these issues through six key areas:
* **Good governance:** Strengthening democratic institutions, promoting transparency, and enhancing accountability.
* **peace and security:** Preventing and mitigating conflict, tackling terrorism, and promoting regional cooperation on security matters.
* **Macroeconomic resilience:** Building more robust and diversified economies to withstand external shocks and promote inclusive growth.
* **Sustainable livelihoods:** Investing in agriculture, infrastructure, and entrepreneurship to create opportunities and improve living standards.
* **Social protection and resilience:** Strengthening safety nets for vulnerable populations and building resilience to shocks.
* **Gender sensitivity and social inclusion:** Guaranteeing equal chance and participation for all, regardless of gender, ethnicity, or social status.
**WTN:** The Strategy emphasizes collaborative action and regional ownership. How does this differ from previous efforts,and what makes it more likely to succeed?
**ASANKPON:** Previous initiatives frequently enough lacked the strong regional ownership and consensus we see with this strategy. This strategy is the product of extensive consultations and collaboration among ECOWAS Member States, civil society organizations, and development partners. It reflects a shared vision and commitment to action.
Critically, this strategy prioritizes coordination between national and regional initiatives, ensuring alignment and maximizing impact.
**WTN:** The Strategy rests on four key pillars: inclusive governance, economic sustainability, social inclusion, and environmental resilience. How do these pillars
interconnect to contribute to regional stability?
**ASANKPON:** Each pillar is crucial, and they are deeply interconnected.
Inclusive governance creates a foundation of legitimacy and accountability, which is essential for building trust and tackling social grievances. Economic sustainability provides a platform for shared prosperity and reduces social tensions.
Social inclusion ensures that everyone benefits from development and has a stake in the region’s success. Environmental resilience safeguards our natural resources and protects vulnerable communities from the impacts of climate change.
Together, these pillars create a virtuous cycle, reinforcing each other and paving the way for a more stable and prosperous West Africa.
**WTN:** The Strategy was finalized at a high-level ministerial meeting in Abidjan. How notable was this meeting, and what are the next steps for implementation?
**ASANKPON:** The Abidjan meeting was a watershed moment. It demonstrated the high level of political commitment to the strategy. Notably, Minister Jacques Konan ASSAHORÉ of Côte d’Ivoire emphasized the critical role of regional cooperation in addressing shared challenges like climate change.
Now, the focus shifts to operationalizing the strategy. This includes developing a detailed implementation plan with clear timelines,responsibilities,and resource allocations.
Importantly, existing initiatives such as the African Urban Resilience Program and Many africa - Hazard will be adapted to align with the Strategy’s goals.
**WTN:** Mr.ASANKPON, thank you for your insights into this landmark strategy. The road ahead will undoubtedly be challenging, but the commitment
demonstrated by West African nations offers a beacon of hope for a more peaceful, stable, and prosperous future for the region.
