OFFICIAL SIGNING OF THE AGREEMENT ON THE RELOCATION OF THE ECOWAS REGIONAL ANIMAL HEALTH CENTRE (RAHC) TO THE REPUBLIC OF GUINEA-BISSAU

The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) and the Government of the Republic of Guinea-Bissau have successfully signed the Legal and Institutional Framework Agreement for the relocation of the ECOWAS Regional Animal Health Centre (RAHC) to Bissau on 18 March 2026.

The Headquarters Agreement was signed on behalf of the Host Government by His Excellency Bernardo Vieira, Minister of Foreign Affairs, International Cooperation and Communities, and on behalf of the ECOWAS Commission by Her Excellency Ngozi Ukaeje, ECOWAS Resident Representative in Guinea-Bissau.

This historic occasion represents a significant milestone in the continued efforts of ECOWAS to strengthen regional institutions and enhance its strategic role in promoting regional integration, public health, and sustainable development across Member States. The relocation of the Regional Animal Health Centre, a specialized agency of ECOWAS previously based in Bamako, Republic of Mali, is expected to further reinforce the region’s capacity to effectively coordinate and harmonize policies and interventions for the control of transboundary animal diseases and zoonoses, support Member States in the formulation of national strategies, and improve regional animal health information and reporting systems.

Furthermore, the Centre will continue to strengthen epidemiological surveillance systems, enhance communication, information exchange, and sensitization among professional and producer networks, and promote stronger partnerships at regional, continental, and international levels for the advancement of animal health in the ECOWAS region.

The relocation of the RAHC to Guinea-Bissau underscores the shared commitment of ECOWAS and its Member States to improving animal health systems, safeguarding food security, protecting livelihoods, and mitigating risks associated with zoonotic diseases in West Africa. ECOWAS expresses its appreciation to the Government of Guinea-Bissau for its commitment and cooperation in hosting the Centre and reaffirms its dedication to ensuring a smooth and effective transition. Haut du formulaire

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