West african leaders advance gender and green economy agenda

Abidjan, 22 May 2026 – The ECOWAS Centre for Gender Development (ECGD), in partnership with UN Women and specialized agencies of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), has officially endorsed a groundbreaking regional initiative linking gender equality, climate resilience, and the green economy. The landmark programme was validated during a high-level meeting in Abidjan this week, marking a significant step toward sustainable regional development.

collaborative roadmap for inclusive climate action

The two-day technical workshop, convened on 15 and 16 May at the ECOWAS Resident Mission in Côte d’Ivoire, brought together policymakers, gender experts, and climate specialists to finalize the strategic framework and implementation roadmap for the initiative. The programme aligns directly with the priorities outlined in the ECOWAS Gender and Climate Action Plan, aiming to amplify collective efforts across member states.

The initiative is designed to address urgent regional needs by integrating gender perspectives into climate adaptation strategies and green economic transitions. It seeks to unlock financing opportunities and build institutional capacity to support women and youth-led initiatives in sustainable agriculture, renewable energy, and climate-smart technologies.

leaders emphasize transformative potential for women and girls

During the discussions, ECGD Director Sandra Oulaté Fattoh highlighted the dual nature of the green transition—presenting both challenges and unprecedented opportunities for women and girls across West Africa. She stressed that without deliberate inclusion, climate policies risk exacerbating existing inequalities, but with targeted support, the transition could empower millions to become agents of change in their communities.

Adjaratou Fatou Ndiaye, UN Women’s Resident Representative in Côte d’Ivoire, framed the initiative as a critical move from policy rhetoric to tangible action. She noted that the programme represents a coordinated response to the intertwined crises of climate change and economic inequality, positioning women and young people at the forefront of sustainable development efforts.

Dr Kalilou Sylla, ECOWAS Commissioner for Economic Affairs and Agriculture, reinforced this vision by calling for an inclusive green transition that guarantees real economic opportunities for women and youth. He emphasized the need to design policies that go beyond symbolic inclusion, ensuring measurable access to resources, land rights, and decision-making roles in climate-related sectors.

next steps toward regional adoption

The finalized programme document is slated for adoption during a working session scheduled from 29 June to 6 July 2026 in Lomé, Togo. This milestone will set the stage for accelerated implementation across ECOWAS member states, with pilot projects expected to launch in select countries by early 2027.