Accra: Ambassador Francis Danti Kotia, the Coordinating Director for Multilateral and International Organisations at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Regional Integration, emphasized the essential role of young people in advancing regional integration and development within the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS). He made these remarks at a Regional Sensitisation Workshop on ECOWAS Protocols for secondary and tertiary students in the Volta Region, organized through the ECOWAS National Office as part of the Ministrys public education mandate.
According to Ghana News Agency, Ambassador Kotia highlighted that ECOWAS symbolizes a shared aspiration for unity, progress, and prosperity across West Africa. Since its inception in 1975, the regional body has been pivotal for economic cooperation, peace, and social development among member states. He underscored that the youth are central to ECOWASs long-term vision, pointing out the opportunities in education, cultural exchange, scholarships, intern
ships, and cross-border collaboration designed to empower the next generation of leaders.
“ECOWAS is not merely an institution; it is a community of people committed to breaking barriers and building bridges. It envisions a borderless region where Ghanaian students can collaborate with peers in Nigeria, Senegal, or Sierra Leone to find African solutions to African challenges,” he stated.
Addressing the recent withdrawal of Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger, which have since formed the Alliance of Sahel States (AES), Ambassador Kotia acknowledged the challenges their exit poses. However, he reaffirmed Ghanas commitment to the principles of peace, democracy, and good governance within ECOWAS. He cited the implementation of the ECOWAS National Biometric Identity Card (Ghana Card), the ECOWAS passport, and protocols on free movement, residence, and establishment as tangible benefits that expand opportunities for trade, education, and regional mobility.
In his address to students, Ambassador Kotia encouraged the
m to play active roles in shaping the continents future. “You are not too young to shape the destiny of West Africa. Your creativity, innovation, and digital skills are key to building a stronger and more united region,” he said, urging them to leverage technology, embrace cross-border collaboration, and promote peace and tolerance.
The Volta Regional Minister, Mr. James Gunu, praised the Ministry for selecting the region to host the workshop, describing the initiative as timely and strategic. He noted that the Volta Region, given its geographic position as a gateway to Ghanas neighboring countries, plays a vital role in advancing ECOWAS protocols on free movement and regional trade.
“The success of ECOWAS protocols and programmes depends largely on public understanding, especially among young people who must appreciate the benefits of economic integration and regional cooperation,” he stated. Mr. Gunu emphasized that youth engagement is not only symbolic but strategic, as todays students represent the fu
ture innovators, diplomats, and entrepreneurs who will drive the ECOWAS vision forward.
He reaffirmed Ghanas commitment, under the leadership of President John Dramani Mahama, to promoting sub-regional development through economic diplomacy, cross-border trade, and infrastructure projects aligned with the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA). The Minister expressed optimism that ongoing diplomatic efforts would pave the way for Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger to return to the ECOWAS fold in the interest of regional peace and unity.
Mr. Gunu also pledged the continued support of the Volta Regional Coordinating Council (VRCC) for initiatives that promote integration, peace, and inclusive development across the sub-region. The workshop brought together students from secondary and tertiary institutions, officials from Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs), and representatives of civil society organizations. Participants explored ECOWAS protocols and discussed ways to strengthen youth awareness and
participation in regional integration at the community level.