IMF West Africa Chief Pays Courtesy Visit to ECOWAS President Touray Amid Strengthening Regional Ties.

By Raymond Enoch

In a significant move underscoring the growing partnership between West Africa and international financial institutions, Professor Ouattara Wautabouna, Executive Director of the West Africa Department at the International Monetary Fund (IMF), paid a courtesy visit to His Excellency Dr Omar Alieu Touray, President of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), at the Commission’s headquarters.

The visit, described as both cordial and strategic, highlighted the shared commitment of ECOWAS and the IMF to deepen economic collaboration, enhance regional stability, and promote sustainable development across the subregion.

During the high-level meeting, Prof Wautabouna and President Touray exchanged views on pressing regional economic challenges, including inflation management, debt sustainability, and financial integration. The discussion also covered the need for structural reforms and capacity building to bolster resilience among ECOWAS member states.

President Touray welcomed the IMF’s continued engagement in the region and commended the institution for its technical and financial support to several ECOWAS countries navigating global economic headwinds. He emphasized the importance of regional solidarity, noting that economic progress must be both inclusive and rooted in African-led solutions.

Prof Wautabouna reaffirmed the IMF’s commitment to supporting ECOWAS in achieving its development agenda, adding that the Fund stands ready to provide policy advice, financial assistance, and capacity development tailored to the unique needs of West African nations.

This visit marks another step toward a stronger institutional relationship between ECOWAS and the IMF, especially at a time when regional cooperation is crucial to overcoming complex economic and geopolitical challenges.