ECOWAS, EU, and British Council Collaborate to Enhance Sustainable Energy Development in West Africa.
By Raymond Enoch.
In a strategic effort to foster sustainable energy development in West Africa, the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), the European Union (EU), and the British Council are joining forces to enhance capacity building and education in the energy sector.
The collaboration is centered around the EU-ECOWAS Scholarship Programme, which aims to provide high-quality training for university graduates, equipping them with the necessary skills to address the region’s increasing demand for energy specialists. The programme, which has already seen notable success, was reviewed during the 4th Steering Committee Meeting held virtually on March 20, 2025. This crucial meeting brought together stakeholders from ECOWAS, the EU, and the British Council to assess progress, set new goals, and strategize for the future.
The programme has successfully placed 72 scholars, including 17 females (making up 41.6% of the cohort), across nine institutions in the region. Of these, 17 are mobile scholars while 55 are stationary, demonstrating the programme’s wide-reaching impact. These scholars are already making strides in the sustainable energy field, with many having secured employment upon graduation.
Mr. Bayaornibe DABIRE, the Director of Energy and Mines at the ECOWAS Commission, emphasized the importance of continued collaboration and financial support from the EU to ensure the project’s long-term sustainability. He also highlighted the committee’s focus on enhancing scholar management, improving communication channels, and planning for the programme’s final phase.
Mrs. Lindoro Laura, the EU’s Regional Programme Manager for Energy and Transport, commended the success of the initiative, acknowledging the efforts of ECOWAS and the British Council in driving the programme forward. She also underscored the significance of maintaining the momentum of such programmes to address energy challenges in the region effectively.
The discussion also revolved around ways to extend the programme, including potential budget reorganizations to support its continued success and adaptability in the face of evolving energy demands.
As the world turns towards more sustainable solutions, partnerships like the one between ECOWAS, the EU, and the British Council are proving crucial in shaping the future of energy in West Africa. With this collaborative effort, the region is poised to produce the skilled workforce necessary to drive the transition towards a greener, more sustainable energy future.
