The Private Sector Directorate of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) hosted Delegates from member states, including delegates from the African Union Commission (AU) and UEMOU, at the 1st Steering Committee Meeting on regional Small Business Coalition in Abuja from 04th to 06th of March, 2024. The purpose of this meeting was to promote and enhance small and medium enterprises in the region.
On behalf of the President of the ECOWAS Commission His Excellency Dr. Omar Alieu Touray, the Commissioner for Economic Affairs and Agriculture, Massandjé TOURE-LITSE, welcomed delegates from member states to a historic meeting of the coalition of regional small and medium enterprises and small and medium industries. This coalition aims to boost regional trade and participation in continental trade among member states.
In a time marked by challenges and opportunities such as the global pandemic, climate crisis, digital transformation, and the African Continental Free Trade Area, the landscape of our economies and societies is changing. The Commissioner stressed the importance of leveraging our collective strengths and comparative advantages as a region to overcome barriers and seize opportunities ahead.
The coalition was seen as significant and timely, providing a platform for dialogue, cooperation, and innovation among small and medium enterprises and industries, which are crucial for economies and development. By collaborating, sharing best practices, accessing new markets, and enhancing competitiveness, we can create more jobs and wealth for our people.
It was emphasized that active involvement and support from member states are essential for the success of the coalition. Building trust, partnership, and mobilizing member states to participate in the program are key for its effectiveness.
The meeting highlighted the urgency to harmonize policies, regulations, and standards to promote small and medium enterprises and to monitor progress and impact regularly for the benefit of the region and continent.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS)