ECOWAS Strengthens Capital Market Integration with WASRA Technical Committee Meeting
By Raymond Enoch
In a significant land mark step toward regional financial integration, the ECOWAS Private Sector Directorate hosted a consultative meeting with the Technical Committee of the West African Securities Regulators Association (WASRA) from January 27 to 30, 2025, in Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire.
The meeting aimed to advance the implementation of ECOWAS’ economic integration agenda, with a strong focus on capital market development across member states.
Representing the ECOWAS Commissioner for Economic Affairs and Agriculture, Mme Massandje TOURE-LITSE, was Dr. Tony Luka ELUMELU, Acting Director of the Private Sector Directorate of ECOWAS. Addressing the gathering, Dr. Elumelu emphasized the critical role of capital market integration in fostering economic growth, financial inclusion, and sustainable development across the region.
The discussions brought together key stakeholders to explore collaborative strategies for strengthening the West African financial ecosystem. The Deputy Director of Côte d’Ivoire’s private sector underscored the importance of innovation and partnership in building a capital market that not only drives economic expansion but also guarantees shared prosperity for all ECOWAS member states.
WASRA, as a unifying body for securities regulators in the region, plays a pivotal role in harmonizing policies and regulations to facilitate cross-border investments and capital flow. The meeting provided an opportunity for regulators to refine strategies aimed at easing market barriers, enhancing investor confidence, and creating a more competitive and inclusive financial environment.
With capital markets recognized as a crucial engine for economic transformation, ECOWAS remains committed to fostering collaboration among member states to ensure a more integrated and resilient financial sector. The outcomes of the WASRA Technical Committee meeting are expected to contribute significantly to the ongoing efforts in achieving a seamless and well-regulated capital market across West Africa.
As the region moves toward deeper economic integration, stakeholders express optimism that initiatives like this will accelerate investment opportunities, strengthen financial stability, and ultimately drive sustainable development for millions across West Africa.
