ECOWAS Strengthens Humanitarian Aid for Disaster-Affected Communities in Member States
By Raymond Enoch
The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting vulnerable communities affected by disasters across its member states.
This was highlighted during a five-day technical monitoring mission to Cabo Verde, where ECOWAS officials assessed the impact of a $770,143 humanitarian aid package allocated to support communities hit by the 2023 floods.
The mission, led by Dr. Sintiki Tarfa-Ugbe, ECOWAS Director of Humanitarian and Social Affairs, aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of the relief efforts and ensure that aid reached those in need.
Speaking on behalf of the ECOWAS Commission President, Dr. Tarfa-Ugbe emphasized that ECOWAS’ humanitarian response extends beyond immediate relief, focusing on long-term recovery and resilience-building.
“Our goal is not only to respond to crises but to ensure that communities are equipped with the tools and resources necessary to recover and thrive,” she stated. She stressed the importance of collaboration with national and local stakeholders to implement impactful humanitarian interventions.
The ECOWAS delegation worked closely with Cabo Verde’s Ministry of Family, Inclusion, and Social Development, as well as local implementing partners, to align the Commission’s support with national development policies. The aid package provided direct assistance to 560 families, with housing support for 80 families and livelihood assistance for 200 others.
Speaking during the closing session of the mission, Cabo Verde’s Secretary of State for Social Inclusion, Mrs. Lídia Lima, underscored the significance of ECOWAS’ financial and humanitarian support. She described it as a crucial complement to the country’s poverty eradication efforts, particularly for disaster-affected communities.
The ECOWAS Interim Permanent Representative to Cabo Verde, Mr. Jean Francis Sempore, highlighted the Commission’s diplomatic engagements in the country. He reaffirmed ECOWAS’ long-standing commitment to humanitarian and social development, assuring that the organization will continue to support affected populations across the region.
The allocation of $770,143 reflects ECOWAS’ dedication to providing sustainable solutions that uplift vulnerable populations affected by disasters. Dr. Tarfa-Ugbe reiterated that effective partnerships with national and local organizations are essential to ensuring that aid reaches those who need it most.
As ECOWAS marks its 50th anniversary, the organization remains focused on strengthening its humanitarian initiatives. This latest intervention in Cabo Verde demonstrates its broader strategy of building resilience in disaster-affected communities and ensuring sustainable recovery efforts.
By reinforcing its commitment to humanitarian aid, ECOWAS continues to play a crucial role in safeguarding the welfare of its citizens and promoting regional stability and development.
