Praia, Cabo Verde – As part of the celebrations marking the 51^st anniversary of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), the ECOWAS Representation in Cabo Verde organized an official reception on 28 May, bringing together representatives of the Government of Cabo Verde, members of the diplomatic corps, media professionals, representatives of national and regional institutions, as well as ECOWAS citizens residing in the country.

The event provided an opportunity to celebrate and reflect on the achievements of the Organization over its 51 years of existence, reaffirming ECOWAS’ commitment to regional integration, peace, stability and the sustainable development of its Member States.

The Government of Cabo Verde was represented at the ceremony by the Minister of Agriculture and Environment, Dr. Gilberto Silva, who congratulated ECOWAS on its journey and on the results achieved for the benefit of the peoples of West Africa. In his remarks, the Minister also highlighted the strategic role of the ECOWAS Centre for Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency (ECREEE), based in Cabo Verde, describing it as a centre of excellence and a regional reference in promoting energy transition, energy efficiency and climate resilience.

For her part, the Acting ECOWAS Representative in Cabo Verde, Ms. Kelly Lopes, speaking on behalf of the President of the ECOWAS Commission, H.E. Dr. Omar Alieu Touray, highlighted the Organization’s major achievements since its establishment and its fundamental role in promoting integration, economic development and the well-being of the region’s populations. On the occasion, she shared a message from the President of the ECOWAS Commission, who underscored the Organization’s vision for the future:

“Building today the ECOWAS of the future means investing in peace and security, strengthening regional economic integration, promoting digital transformation, and fostering a culture of accountability and good governance. It means reinforcing trust between institutions and citizens and ensuring that our Community remains relevant, dynamic and resilient.”

The celebrations also included educational activities for school-aged children, who had the opportunity to visit the premises of the ECOWAS Representation in Cabo Verde. During the visit, the children interacted with the Representation’s staff and attended a presentation on the history, objectives and achievements of the Organization, helping to raise awareness among younger generations about the ideals of regional integration and cooperation among the peoples of West Africa, in line with the theme of the 51st anniversary: “Building Today the ECOWAS of the Future.”

As it celebrates its 51^st anniversary, ECOWAS renews its commitment to working closely with its Member States, institutional partners and citizens to build a more integrated, prosperous, inclusive and resilient region.