On June 13, 2024, at the British Consul Auditorium in Ghana, during the 15th Anniversary of Nigerian Eye Newspaper, themed “Trade Conundrum: Expanding Understanding of the ECOWAS Module as Catalyst to Prosperity in Sub-Saharan Africa” renowned legal practitioner, Enoch Anhwere Afoakwa, has emphasized the crucial role the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) plays in promoting economic integration and prosperity in Sub-Saharan Africa. Speaking at an event organized by Nigerian Eye Newspaper to commemorate its 15th anniversary, Anhwer highlighted the potential of ECOWAS in transforming the economic landscape of West Africa through enhanced trade, political cooperation, and social progress.
Anhwere noted that despite the challenges facing ECOWAS, the organization holds immense potential as a catalyst for prosperity in the region. He identified economic integration and market expansion, infrastructure development, promoting industrialization and value addition, political stability and governance, and social development and human capital as key areas where ECOWAS can make a significant impact.
He urged member states to harmonize their trade policies, reduce tariffs, and remove non-tariff barriers to facilitate smoother and more efficient intra-regional trade. Anhwere also emphasized the need for investment in infrastructure, promotion of regional value chains, and support for industrialization and innovation.
According to Anhwere, political stability and good governance are prerequisites for economic stability and prosperity. He encouraged ECOWAS to continue its efforts to mediate conflicts, uphold the rule of law, and promote democratic values in member states.
He concluded by emphasizing the need for expanded understanding and cooperation among member states, public-private partnerships, and engagement with civil society to realize the full potential of ECOWAS as a catalyst for prosperity in Sub-Saharan Africa.
In his words, “By expanding our understanding of the ECOWAS module and harnessing its potential, we can create a prosperous and integrated West Africa. The journey requires vision, commitment, and collective action. Let us work together to transform ECOWAS into a powerful engine of growth, development, and prosperity for our region.”
