Women Take the Lead in ECOWAS-Spain Project, Amplifies Voices in Bouaké. Coted’lvoire
By Raymond Enoch
In a bold and inspiring move toward reshaping peace and security governance in West Africa, the ECOWAS-Spain “Women, Peace and Security” project gathered women leaders from across politics, civil society, and local communities for a landmark two-day dialogue in Bouaké. The mission: strengthen the bridge between regional institutions and grassroots communities—placing women at the center of decision-making and post-conflict recovery.
With voices that have too often been sidelined, participants used the forum to confront the deep-rooted barriers limiting their participation in security governance. The result? A unified, urgent call for institutional support, technical empowerment, and the recognition of women as key actors in rebuilding fractured communities.
Speaking at the opening ceremony, Mr. Yaya Koné, Cabinet Director representing the Mayor of Bouaké, reaffirmed the city’s dedication to “living together, peace, and women’s empowerment.” Echoing this commitment, Mr. Yapo Adépeaud Jocelyn, Secretary General of the Bouaké Prefecture, highlighted women’s pivotal role in peace consolidation and economic growth.
Dr. Odile Ndoumbé Faye, Project Coordinator, stood alongside Ms. Sandra Oulaté Fattoh of the CCDG, delivering a powerful message on behalf of ECOWAS Commissioner Prof. Fatou Sow Sarr:
“The inclusion of women must no longer be a theoretical principle, but a concrete requirement.”
This dialogue is part of a broader consultation series already spanning Benin, Guinea-Bissau, Liberia, Senegal, and Côte d’Ivoire—setting the stage for a unified West African women’s agenda. The outcome: a concrete roadmap and set of recommendations to be submitted directly to Heads of State and Government.
With Bouaké now etched into the map of regional transformation, West African women are making it clear: the time for sidelined voices is over. The future of peace depends on inclusive power—and the women of West Africa are ready to lead it.
