ECOWAS Allocates $25 Million in 2024 to Combat Terrorism and Aid Displaced Persons in Nigeria, Niger, Mali, and Burkina Faso

The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has announced a significant allocation of funds in 2024 to combat terrorism and assist displaced persons in Nigeria, Niger, Mali, and Burkina Faso.

Prof. Fatou Sarr, the ECOWAS Commissioner for Human Development and Social Affairs, revealed this information during a recent press conference in Abuja.

In an effort to address the multiple crises and displacements within the community, ECOWAS has dedicated $25 million for the fight against terrorism in the aforementioned countries.

Out of this total, $9 million is specifically allocated for internally displaced people, refugees, asylum seekers, and the communities that host them across all 15 countries in the sub-region.

Additionally, $1 million is earmarked for stabilization in Nigeria, focusing on victims of terrorism, displaced individuals, and the rehabilitation and strengthening of community resilience.

Moreover, $4 million is set aside for humanitarian actions in Nigeria, Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger, aiming to mitigate the devastating consequences of terrorism and natural disasters in the region.

In 2023 alone, ECOWAS provided support to 4 million out of the 8.5 million victims of violent conflicts and disasters across West Africa, amounting to over $12.6 million.

The decision to allocate such funds demonstrates the organization’s commitment to addressing the humanitarian crises and promoting stability in the region.

The support extends to countries under sanctions as well, with Guinea receiving $600,000 in January 2023, including $100,000 for fire disaster and $499,390 for floods.

Furthermore, the ECOWAS is also actively working on youth development and integration through volunteerism, sports, and economic integration. Since 2014, 217 volunteers have been posted to countries such as Liberia, Sierra Leone, Guinea, Nigeria, Burkina Faso, and Benin.

The organization has also been supporting sports federations with $100,000 each per year and has initiated cooperation with the People’s Republic of China to support young entrepreneurs in the subregion.

To further emphasize the importance of youth engagement, an ECOWAS youth conference is scheduled for May 2024, aiming to evaluate the current situation and identify changes and ruptures that have contributed to some regional malaise.

This comprehensive approach to tackling terrorism, displacement, and youth development showcases the ECOWAS’ dedication to fostering a more secure, resilient, and prosperous West Africa.