The ECOWAS data harmonisation initiative marked a significant step forward on 14 November 2025, as the ECOWAS Commission finalised a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Islamic Republic of Mauritania in Nouakchott. The agreement focuses on enhancing statistical systems and promoting central Africa statistics across West and Central Africa.
Harmonising and Improving Regional Statistics
Under the World Bank–funded Project for the Harmonization and Improvement of Statistics in West and Central Africa (HISWACA), Mauritania will participate in regional statistical harmonisation activities led by ECOWAS. The project will also provide technical assistance and platforms for knowledge and experience sharing, supporting statistical improvement across the region.
Technical Collaboration Between ECOWAS and Mauritania
Technical experts from ECOWAS and Mauritania’s Agence Nationale de la Statistique et de l’Analyse Démographique et Économique (ANSADE) reviewed key cooperation areas and discussed Mauritania’s involvement in the HISWACA project. All MoU articles have been agreed upon, with the signing ceremony scheduled for a later date to be announced. This collaboration reinforces ECOWAS’s commitment to regional statistical improvement and data harmonisation.
Leadership Engagement and Strategic Meetings
Dr. Kalilou Sylla, ECOWAS Commissioner for Economic Affairs and Agriculture, held meetings with Mauritanian government officials and development partners to advance the MoU’s implementation. His discussions included Mr. Mohamed El Moctar Ahmed Sidi, Director General of ANSADE; Mr. Yeslem Hamdane, Chargé de Mission at the Ministry of Economic Affairs and Development; Mr. Jean Senahoun, FAO Representative in Mauritania; and H.E. Joaquin Tasso Villalonga, Ambassador of the EU Delegation. The ECOWAS delegation also met with Mr. Ibou Diouf, Resident Representative of the World Bank in Mauritania, highlighting the strong regional commitment to central Africa statistics.
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Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS).
This story was first reported by ECOWAS. Read the full article here.
