ECOWAS Celebrates 50th Anniversary Under the Theme: “StrongerTogether, For a Brighter Future

By: Oretha Bundoo-Seh

The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), in collaboration
with the Made in Liberia Fair and Ecobank Liberia Ltd. has celebrated its
50th anniversary under the theme: “Stronger Together, For a Brighter
Future.”

This year’s commemoration is a two-day event marking five decades of
regional solidarity and progress. Since its establishment, ECOWAS has remained
a resilient regional body, navigating numerous challenges faced by over 400
million citizens across its fifteen member states.

At the anniversary ceremony held at ECOWAS Headquarters in Congo Town,
ECOWAS Resident Representative to Liberia, Ambassador Josephine Nkrumah, urged
Liberian youth to remain vigilant in their pursuit of funding opportunities and
personal growth.

She encouraged young people to learn continuously, adapt to changing
circumstances, and be flexible in their plans and ideals.

“As ECOWAS marks 50 years of highs and lows,” Madam Nkrumah said, “we want
to reinforce the message that youth will be at the forefront of ECOWAS’
endeavors for the next 50 years and beyond—charting new dimensions of growth,
development, and prosperity for all.”

Highlighting the importance of youth empowerment, she explained that
promoting youth entrepreneurship was selected as the centerpiece of Liberia’s
ECOWAS@50 celebration. This focus is in line with the ECOWAS Youth Policy and
Strategic Plan.

“Financial literacy, effective communication, and strong networking skills
are essential tools for young entrepreneurs aspiring to become impactful
leaders,” she noted.

Ambassador Nkrumah reaffirmed the ECOWAS Commission’s commitment to engaging
youth as agents of transformation across the ECOWAS region, Africa, and the
wider world.

A panel discussion during the celebration explored sustainable investment,
women in clean energy, and support for youth- and women-led small and medium
enterprises in the energy sector, among other topics.

The first day of the celebration brought together youth leaders, government
officials, representatives from NGOs and CSOs, and members of the ECOWAS
diplomatic corps.

Day Two of the celebration took place on Saturday at Invincible
Park, featuring an exhibition and sale of Made in Liberia
products from across the country.