The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) Commission has initiated a significant step towards fostering regional integration and cooperation among its member states. Through its Directorate of Free Movement of Persons, Migration and Tourism, ECOWAS held a meeting in Conakry, Guinea, on 22 October 2026. The primary objective of this gathering was to launch the National Platform for the ECOWAS Regional Cross-Border Cooperation Support Programme (ECBCSP). This programme aims to strengthen social cohesion, regional integration, and sustainable development in border regions.
The ECBCSP is a multisectoral initiative designed to work closely with communities in border regions. By doing so, it seeks to deepen cooperation among populations, neighbouring states, and local markets. The programme also supports joint planning and development across the region. Madam Mariama Bailo-Barry, Director of Cabinet of the Minister of Foreign Affairs, African Integration and Guineans Established Abroad, welcomed participants. She emphasized the importance of promoting cross-border cooperation, especially for countries sharing borders within ECOWAS.
In his opening address, Mr. Albert Siaw-Boateng, Director of Free Movement of Persons, Migration and Tourism, represented H.E. General Birame Diop, President of the ECOWAS Commission. Mr. Siaw-Boateng reiterated the Commission’s commitment to making cross-border cooperation a force for lasting peace and shared prosperity. He highlighted the importance of joint planning, stronger communities, and a safer, more stable region. The launch event brought together various stakeholders to discuss the establishment and operationalization of National Platforms.
A key aspect of the programme is the creation of National Platforms in member states. During the first phase, twelve member states, including Benin, Cabo Verde, Côte d’Ivoire, The Gambia, Ghana, Guinea-Bissau, Liberia, Niger, Nigeria, Senegal, Sierra Leone, and Togo, launched their platforms. Each of these countries received a grant of US$100,000 to support the implementation of cross-border projects. This financial support is crucial for initiating and sustaining projects that aim to improve the lives of communities in border areas.
The ECBCSP has several key objectives, including capacity-building, training, and public information on cross-border cooperation. It also promotes peace, stability, and development, while supporting work on migration management, free movement, and regional security. By providing technical and financial support for local socioeconomic development initiatives, the programme aims to strengthen institutional support, legal frameworks, and coordination across sectors.
Through the National Platforms, ECOWAS and its member states will collaborate with local actors to turn shared priorities into coordinated action. This cooperation is expected to contribute to more peaceful, connected, and prosperous border communities. The programme’s focus on enabling communities and institutions to develop and implement cross-border projects is a significant step towards expanding cooperation across the region.
The ECOWAS Cross-Border Cooperation Support Programme for 2023–2027 outlines the programme's goals, which include advancing regional integration and delivering practical benefits for border communities. By achieving these objectives, ECOWAS aims to make a tangible impact on the lives of people living in border regions, ultimately fostering a more integrated and prosperous West Africa.
Key points
- The programme supports capacity-building and provides financial grants to member states to implement cross-border projects.
- The ECBCSP aims to strengthen social cohesion, regional integration, and sustainable development in border regions.
- Twelve ECOWAS member states have already launched their National Platforms and received US$100,000 grants for project implementation.
