West Africa unites on gender and green economy policies

The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has convened a pivotal two-day regional workshop in Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire, centered on gender equality, climate change, and the green economy. This high-level gathering brings together policymakers, technical experts, and regional institutions to address the pressing challenges of ecological transition in West Africa.

Driving gender-sensitive climate action

The initiative, spearheaded by the ECOWAS Centre for Gender Development (ECGD) with support from UN Women, explores the theme “Gender-responsive climate action and green transitions in West Africa.” Its primary goal is to establish a comprehensive regional framework that amplifies women’s participation in environmental policies and green economic opportunities.

During the opening session, ECGD Director Sandra Oulaté highlighted the urgent need for inclusive strategies to tackle climate impacts across the subregion. Women, she noted, face disproportionate vulnerabilities due to climate disruptions, particularly in agricultural and rural communities.

The proposed 2030 regional program will prioritize enhanced access to green financing, sustainable employment, and economic pathways linked to environmental governance for women.

Strengthening regional collaboration on green financing

Representing the Ivorian government’s delegation, Louis-Philippe Boni commended Côte d’Ivoire’s strides in gender and environmental policy, citing reforestation initiatives, energy transitions, and efforts to boost women’s representation in leadership roles.

He emphasized the necessity of deeper collaboration among ECOWAS member states to expand women’s access to green financing mechanisms and amplify their voices in regional climate strategies.

By the workshop’s conclusion, delegates will finalize key program pillars, including budget allocations, operational frameworks, and a roadmap for the coming years.

Rural women bear the brunt of climate crises

Dr Namizata Binaté, representing Côte d’Ivoire’s Ministry of Women, Family, and Children, underscored how droughts, flooding, and land degradation disproportionately affect rural women. She advocated for greater female representation in climate policy decision-making processes.

Echoing this sentiment, ECOWAS Commissioner for Economic Affairs and Agriculture, Dr Kalilou Sylla, stressed that while women are vital to West Africa’s agricultural economy, systemic barriers restrict their access to productive resources and funding.

Sylla framed gender equality as a cornerstone for building climate-resilient economies across the region.