In a historic move, the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has taken a bold step towards addressing pressing humanitarian and poverty challenges in the region.
The recently concluded hybrid inter-ministerial meeting in Banjul, Gambia, saw Nigeria’s Minister for Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, Dr. Betta Edu, assume the pivotal role of Chairman of the ECOWAS Inter-Ministerial Committee on Social Protection.
The focal point of the deliberations was the adoption of the ECOWAS regional social protection framework and operational plan.
Dr. Edu, a passionate advocate for social welfare, emphasized the urgent need for ECOWAS member countries to collaborate in achieving optimal social protection within the sub-region.
In her address, Dr. Edu underscored the fundamental nature of social protection as a human right, asserting its proven effectiveness as a stabilizing force during crises and shocks. Drawing attention to the global impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, she highlighted the vulnerabilities in the social protection systems of West African countries.
Shockingly, the ECOWAS region records an average coverage of approximately 17% of the population, significantly lower than international standards.
Despite these challenges, Dr. Edu acknowledged the commendable efforts of member states, with Nigeria standing out as an exemplar.
The nation has implemented extensive social protection interventions, covering an unprecedented 15 million households and 61 million individuals through conditional cash transfers—a testament to President Bola Tinubu’s leadership in the region.
Nigeria’s comprehensive approach includes a National Policy on Social Protection and ancillary policies such as the Cash and Voucher Assistance policy.
Dr. Edu also highlighted the integration of a Humanitarian and Poverty Alleviation Trust Fund, approved by the Federal Executive Council, to mobilize resources for social protection interventions.
The newly unveiled Social Protection Framework for West Africa is positioned as a comprehensive guide for ECOWAS and member states in designing and delivering social protection interventions.
Aligned with Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG target 1.3, the framework seeks to implement nationally appropriate social protection systems and measures for all.
The closing ceremony, attended by ministers responsible for social protection from eleven countries, witnessed the Vice President of The Gambia, Muhammad Jallow, commend the commitment of member states.
Jallow highlighted the framework’s focus on addressing financing, coverage, climate risk, and informality in economies, urging the region to mainstream social protection into annual budgets for greater stability.
This significant event marks a crucial milestone in fostering regional collaboration to combat poverty and enhance food security in West Africa.
The ECOWAS Social Protection Framework is poised to bring about a positive transformation in the lives of millions, signaling a united front against humanitarian challenges in the region.
