Benin hosts ECOWAS dialogue to foster greater citizen participation and combat misinformation

The ECOWAS Representation in Benin, in collaboration with the West African Health Organisation (WAHO), the University of Abomey-Calavi, and the Union of ECOWAS Nationals in Benin (UN-ECOWAS), hosted a significant forum aimed at promoting active citizen participation in the ECOWAS integration process.

The two-day event, held on May 30 and 31, 2024, at the Idriss Déby ITNO auditorium, coincided with the 49th anniversary of ECOWAS.

Titled “Multi-stakeholder Dialogues for a More Active Participation of Citizens in the Full Realisation of the ECOWAS of Peoples,” the forum gathered a diverse array of participants. These included Beninese authorities, Members of Parliament, the ECOWAS diplomatic corps, civil society actors, regional integration experts, students, and members of the twelve ECOWAS communities in Benin.

The forum’s objectives were to:
1. Enhance understanding of ECOWAS’s regional integration efforts and achievements.
2. Combat misinformation and fake news about ECOWAS.
3. Address the current crises affecting the institution.
4. Foster a sense of community citizenship among participants.

Prominent speakers included Ambassador Amadou DIONGUE, Resident Representative; Professor Félicien AVLESSI, Rector of the University of Abomey-Calavi; Chief Uneke OKEREKE, 1st Vice-President of UN-ECOWAS; H.E. Mr. Sidu N. TIGGI, Acting Chargé d’Affaires of Nigeria to Benin; and Mrs. MASSIM-OUALI AFFO Alice, Deputy Secretary General representing the Minister of State.

The forum opened with an inaugural lecture by Pr Nassirou BAKO-ARIFARI, former Minister of Foreign Affairs and ECOWAS Parliament Member, discussing the theme “ECOWAS of States and Peoples: a construction site at a crossroads.” Subsequent panel discussions addressed:
1. Experiences and perceptions of ECOWAS by grassroots communities.
2. The institutional architecture and governance of ECOWAS.
3. Major achievements of ECOWAS and future prospects.
4. Emerging threats to peace and security, including issues of elections and unconstitutional changes of power.

Participants were enlightened about various ECOWAS projects impacting public health, agriculture, food, energy, and infrastructure. The forum concluded with a call for significant reforms to enhance ECOWAS’s efficiency and responsiveness to regional challenges, reflecting a strong desire for a more integrated and effective West African community.