As part of their mandate to keep member states informed about their operations, the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) on Tuesday 16th June 2026 disclosed the objectives of their Vision 2050 during a conference held at the Sierra Leone Association of Journalists (SLAJ) secretariat on Campbell Street. The event attracted a good number of journalists and other representatives from various institutions.
In his welcome remarks, the head of ECOWAS at the national office based at the Ministry of Planning and Economic Development, Komba Momoh, underscored the importance of the meeting. He cited the significant impact of the Vision 2050 and stressed that its success would depend on the cooperation of every country and, by extension, its citizens.
Giving the purpose of the Vision 2050, the Director for Strategic Planning, Monitoring and Evaluation at the ECOWAS Commission, Aboaboto, described the framework as one designed “for the Peoples: Peace and Prosperity for All.” He explained that it is a long-term strategic framework designed to guide the Economic Community of West African States toward a more integrated, peaceful, and prosperous region by the year 2050. He noted that its purposes are both aspirational and practical, aiming to transform ECOWAS from a “community of states” into a “community of the people” where all 300 million residents can actively shape their shared future.
In his statement, the ECOWAS Resident Representative in Sierra Leone, John Azuma, described journalists as the watchdogs of society. He used the opportunity to recognise the government of Sierra Leone for their leadership and commitment to regional integration. He also congratulated SLAJ for the successful hosting of their recent annual general meeting held in Makeni.
Azuma recalled that ECOWAS was established in 1976 with a focus to advocate and raise awareness for member states. He emphasised that Vision 2050 is not merely a strategy but a guiding document that charts the course for the region’s development. He said the Vision 2050 pays particular attention to women, the media, and vulnerable groups to ensure they are not left behind. He added that the vision aligns with the development plans of ECOWAS member states as well as with the global Sustainable Development Goals.
He pointed out that the vision is divided into pillars and that the actualisation of those pillars depends largely on the citizens of the region. He further stated that the results of the vision will help deepen strong leadership, collective leadership, and shared responsibility while ensuring transparency and accountability in governance.
A detailed presentation was also made on the Vision 2050, covering its achievements and challenges. A video documentary was screened to depict the background and progress of ECOWAS since its inception.
