The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has reaffirmed its commitment to empowering women traders in West Africa by hosting the second meeting of its Subcommittee on Women in Trade on October 21–22, 2025. The two-day virtual event focused on reviewing the subcommittee’s three-year work plan and enhancing women’s involvement in cross-border trade policies across the region.
Strengthening Women’s Role in Regional Trade
Sierra Leone’s Minister of Gender and Children’s Affairs, Dr. Isata Mahoi, emphasized that women—both formal and informal traders—play a vital role in West Africa’s economies. However, she noted they continue to face barriers such as limited access to finance, markets, and decision-making opportunities.
Dr. Mahoi highlighted national reforms, including the 2020 National Policy on Gender Equality and Women’s Empowerment and the 2024–2030 Medium-Term Development Plan, which focus on integrating women into value chains and promoting women empowerment initiatives. She urged ECOWAS members to move from discussions to action so rural and informal women traders are fully included in regional trade programs.
ECOWAS Commitment to Gender-Responsive Trade
Speaking on behalf of ECOWAS Commissioners Dr. Kalilou Sylla and Prof. Fatou Sow Sarr, Mr. Kolawole Sofola, Director of Trade, reaffirmed ECOWAS’ dedication to promoting inclusive and gender-responsive trade. He explained that the Subcommittee on Women in Trade aims to tackle structural barriers through cross-border trade policies, capacity-building programs, and gender-sensitive reforms in line with ECOWAS Vision 2050’s goal of equitable development.
Sofola also praised progress made since the first meeting, including the rollout of a three-year plan targeting challenges like complex customs procedures, inadequate border infrastructure, and limited awareness of trade regulations.
Collaborative Actions for Inclusive Growth
Experts from member states reviewed major achievements, such as the third edition of the awareness campaign for small cross-border traders along the Abidjan–Lagos corridor, the ECOWAS–ECOBANK empowerment program, and digital training sessions for rural women.
The meeting concluded with calls to:
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Advocate for increased funding for women empowerment initiatives.
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Promote women’s participation in border governance to prevent harassment and gender-based violence.
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Expand ECOWAS programs to ensure equal participation in economic development and integration.
ECOWAS leaders emphasized that inclusive trade policies are essential for unlocking the full potential of women traders in West Africa and strengthening the region’s economic resilience.
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This story was first reported by APO Group on behalf of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS). Read the full article here.
