CEDEAO meets experts in Accra to update regional infrastructure master plan

A crucial consultative meeting dedicated to updating the Regional Infrastructure Master Plan (PDIR) of the ECOWAS commenced on November 21, 2024 in Accra, Ghana. Organized by the Project Preparation and Development Unit (PPDU), the event brought together experts from Member States, representatives from the ECOWAS Commission, the ECOWAS Investment and Development Bank (BIDC), the West African Electricity Exchange System (WAPP) and other key regional organizations. The main goal is to review completed projects and outline the next steps for the planned 2025.

This initiative is in line with 60’s recommendations. the ECOWAS Summit of Heads of State and Government, held in December 2021, which approved the PDIR and called for periodic revisions to integrate new priorities. The PDIR update aims to align regional infrastructure projects with national and sectoral plans, strengthening it as a strategic framework for sustainable infrastructure development in the region.

The opening session featured key speeches, including a speech by Rita Ohene Sarfoh, Ghana’s Director of Policy Planning and Budget, who represented the Minister of Roads and Highways. The Director highlighted advances in iconic projects, such as the Abidjan-Lagos Corridor, and emphasized the need to adopt innovative funding mechanisms, such as green and climate financing. In addition, he emphasized the importance of integrating social, environmental, and gender considerations in infrastructure projects, ensuring greater inclusion and sustainability.

In conclusion, Rita Ohene Sarfoh called for unified collaboration among participants to ensure the recommendations of this meeting are relevant and effective. This collective effort will strengthen PDIR as an essential instrument to guide the harmonious development of regional infrastructures, contributing to economic and social growth in West Africa.

This event underlines ECOWAS’ ongoing commitment to modernization and sustainable expansion of regional infrastructures, aiming to promote integration and socio-economic development for the benefit of the citizens of the region.