ECOWAS Vice President H. E Damtien L. Tchintchibidja Rallies Member States for Stronger Institutions as 39th AFC Opens in Sierra Leone By Raymond Enoch
The Vice President of the ECOWAS Commission, H.E.. Damtien L. Tchintchibidja, has urged Member States and Community Institutions to deepen institutional efficiency, accountability and collective commitment as the 39th Meeting of the ECOWAS Administration and Finance Committee (AFC) commenced in Freetown, Sierra Leone.
Speaking at the opening ceremony of the three-day meeting, Mrs. Tchintchibidja positioned the Committee’s deliberations as critical to the future of the regional institution, stressing that effective administration and prudent financial management remain indispensable to achieving ECOWAS’ regional integration agenda.
She noted that the opening of the Committee’s meeting comes at a defining moment following the celebration of the ECOWAS Golden Jubilee, describing the anniversary as an opportunity not only to celebrate five decades of achievements but also to honestly assess the Community’s challenges and chart a stronger course for the future.
According to the Vice President, the reports and recommendations expected from the Administration and Finance Committee will play a strategic role in strengthening governance across ECOWAS institutions by enhancing transparency, institutional effectiveness and accountability.
“The Golden Jubilee has provided us with an opportunity not only to celebrate our achievements but also to reflect on our challenges and future aspirations,” she said, urging delegates to approach their work with renewed dedication to the vision of a stronger and more responsive ECOWAS.
The 39th AFC meeting brings together representatives of ECOWAS Member States and Community Institutions to review key administrative, financial, human resource and budgetary matters, as well as institutional performance reports. The outcomes of the meeting are expected to shape recommendations that will be presented to the ECOWAS Council of Ministers.
Also addressing participants, the ECOWAS Commissioner for Internal Services, Dr. Habib Yaya Bappah, commended the Administration and Finance Committee for its consistent oversight role over the years. He said the Committee’s diligence and professionalism have significantly contributed to making ECOWAS one of Africa’s most effective regional economic communities.
Dr. Bappah emphasized that sound financial governance and institutional accountability remain essential pillars for delivering the Community’s programmes and maintaining the confidence of Member States and development partners.
Declaring the meeting open, the Chair of the Administration and Finance Committee, Mr. Komba Momoh, reaffirmed Sierra Leone’s commitment to supporting ECOWAS and promoting regional integration, peace, security and sustainable development.
He described the Administration and Finance Committee as a central organ within the ECOWAS institutional framework, entrusted with reviewing administrative, financial and budgetary matters while ensuring prudent management of Community resources.
The 39th Meeting of the ECOWAS Administration and Finance Committee is taking place from 12 to 14 July 2026 in Freetown, with delegates expected to examine a broad range of reports and proposals aimed at improving the operational effectiveness and financial sustainability of ECOWAS institutions.
