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Central African Republic (CAR): Special Criminal Court at serious risk of closure in 2026 due to lack of funding

Source: APO


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  • Court’s closure would fail victims & survivors and represent “a catastrophic setback” in country’s fight against impunity
  • Court staff already reduced by 25%

The Special Criminal Court (SCC) of the Central African Republic is at serious risk of closure in 2026, potentially depriving thousands of victims and survivors of war crimes and crimes against humanity of justice and reparations, Amnesty International said today. The organization is calling on states to make urgent financial contributions to the court to ensure its crucial operations can continue.

The SCC, which relies solely on voluntary contributions from states and international organizations, has endured massive budget cuts over the past year. Without additional funding, the court, which has a mandate to investigate and prosecute crimes under international law committed during conflicts in the Central African Republic, will run out of money in June.

“Thousands of Central African civilians were killed, raped, abducted, maimed, injured, displaced, or had their homes burned down during waves of violence and armed conflict since 2003. For these victims and survivors, the SCC represents a hope for justice, which is now compromised. The court is doing essential work, with 15 investigations and three trials ongoing, and over 30 persons currently wanted. Its closure would be a catastrophic setback in the fight against impunity in the Central African Republic. It must continue its work,” said Marceau Sivieude, Amnesty International’s Regional Director for West and Central Africa.  

“Victims are excluded from their own trials, as the court no longer has the means to cover their transportation and accommodation costs. The possibility of cases being frozen or simply abandoned is no longer a hypothesis, it is a founded fear. Victims fear that justice will be extinguished due to lack of resources,” said a member of a local survivors’ association.

“The decline in funding has a significant impact. Financial partners are no longer responding to our needs, yet those partners are essential. This affects those most directly concerned, namely the victims who are seeking justice,” said the representative of another survivors’ association. 

The SCC was severely affected by the withdrawal of funding by the United States, which was the second biggest donor to the court after the United Nations (UN). The only current donors are the UN, through its peacekeeping mission and its development agency, and the European Union (EU). Due to the liquidity crisis faced by the UN, it cannot guarantee its planned contributions for 2026.

This drastic funding reduction has already profoundly affected the court’s functioning and jeopardizes its very existence, with serious repercussions for ongoing proceedings and the services provided to victims and witnesses. For this calendar year, only the EU has pledged a funding contribution. Some European states are also examining the possibility of providing funding, however they have not yet committed to making new contributions, and neither has any other state.

The court has already had to make a quarter of its staff redundant, particularly its foreign experts, between August and September 2025, according to information gathered by Amnesty International. There is now only one team of judicial police officers left to investigate, down from four previously, while there are 15 ongoing investigations into cases involving war crimes and crimes against humanity. The witness protection section has lost more than half of its staff, potentially reducing the court’s ability to prevent reprisals against witnesses.

“Victims and survivors of crimes under international law have a right to truth, justice, and reparations. We call on all partner states of the Central African Republic to urgently commit financial and human resources to the SCC so that justice can be served for these victims and survivors. Without this, impunity will prevail,” said Marceau Sivieude.

“National courts do not have the resources and capacity to carry out the mandate entrusted to the SCC, despite the efforts made by the Central African authorities. If the SCC closes, having arrested and prosecuted in person only a few low-level persons, and not the leaders most responsible, and for a few recent incidents, it will have largely failed in its mission and disappointed the hopes and expectations of the Central African people.”

Background

The SCC, inaugurated on 22 October 2018, is a hybrid court supported by the UN, composed of Central African and foreign prosecutors and judges.

On 19 April 2022, it opened its first trial, against three former members of an armed group for war crimes and crimes against humanity. Since then, four trials have taken place, two of these cases are still in the appeal phase. Two other trials are currently pending in first instance.

The SCC issued an arrest warrant for former President François Bozizé in 2024, which has not yet been executed, although the case was sent to trial in January 2026 even in the absence of Bozizé. Over 30 persons are currently wanted by the court in connection with ongoing investigations or proceedings.

The SCC began its second five-year term on 22 October 2023. It is due to end in October 2028.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Amnesty International.

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Le Gabon et l’Afrique du Sud renforcent leurs liens miniers grâce à un nouvel accord de collaboration en géosciences

Source: Africa Press Organisation – French

Le Gabon a franchi une étape importante dans le renforcement de son secteur minier en signant un nouvel accord de collaboration entre le ministère des Mines et des Ressources géologiques du Gabon (www.Mines.Gouv.ga) et le Conseil sud-africain pour les géosciences. Ce partenariat vise à améliorer la recherche géologique, à renforcer les capacités techniques et à accélérer le développement durable des ressources minérales du Gabon.

Cet accord s’inscrit dans la stratégie plus large du Gabon visant à diversifier son économie et à exploiter pleinement le potentiel commercial de son industrie minière. Si le pays est surtout connu pour sa production pétrolière, il dispose également d’importants gisements inexploités de minerai de fer, de manganèse, d’or et d’autres minerais stratégiques. En collaborant avec l’une des principales institutions africaines en géosciences, le Gabon entend moderniser sa base de connaissances géologiques et consolider les fondations institutionnelles de son secteur minier.

Au cœur de l’accord figure l’engagement de mener des évaluations géologiques complètes à travers le territoire gabonais afin d’identifier de nouveaux potentiels miniers. Le Conseil pour les géosciences travaillera aux côtés d’experts gabonais pour examiner les données géologiques existantes, réaliser de nouvelles études lorsque nécessaire et élaborer des cartes actualisées des ressources. Ces efforts devraient permettre de mieux cerner le potentiel minéral du Gabon et d’aider le gouvernement à concevoir des stratégies plus efficaces de valorisation commerciale.

L’accord a été signé au Cap par M. Alain Manzanza, Directeur général de la géologie au ministère des Mines du Gabon, et par M. Mosa Mabuza, Directeur général du Conseil sud-africain pour les géosciences, sous la supervision de Son Excellence Sosthène Nguema Nguema, ministre des Mines et des Ressources géologiques du Gabon, et de Son Excellence Rod Rembendambya, ambassadeur du Gabon en Afrique du Sud. La cérémonie de signature a mis en évidence le soutien politique de haut niveau accordé à cette initiative et la volonté commune de renforcer la coopération bilatérale.

Un autre pilier essentiel du partenariat concerne le renforcement des capacités. L’accord prévoit des programmes de formation, des échanges techniques et des initiatives de recherche conjointes destinés à développer les compétences des professionnels gabonais du secteur minier. Grâce à des ateliers, des stages et des projets collaboratifs, les géologues et ingénieurs gabonais auront accès à des techniques d’exploration avancées et aux meilleures pratiques internationales en matière de gestion des ressources minérales.

Le ministre Nguema Nguema souligné que le partenariat ne se limite pas à la coopération technique. Il vise également à renforcer les liens économiques entre le Gabon et l’Afrique du Sud en encourageant les entreprises minières sud-africaines à explorer des opportunités d’investissement au Gabon. En améliorant la transparence géologique et les capacités réglementaires, l’accord devrait rendre le pays plus attractif pour les investissements étrangers dans le secteur minier.

Les normes environnementales et technologiques constituent une autre dimension importante de la collaboration. Les deux parties se sont engagées à partager leurs connaissances sur les technologies minières modernes et l’évolution des réglementations environnementales. Cela inclut la promotion de pratiques minières responsables, l’amélioration du suivi environnemental et l’intégration des considérations de durabilité dans la planification des projets, des aspects de plus en plus déterminants pour les investisseurs internationaux.

Selon le ministre Sosthène Nguema Nguema, “cet accord représente une initiative opportune, conforme aux orientations du chef de l’État, le président Brice Clotaire Oligui Nguema, qui s’est engagé à accroître la contribution du secteur minier à l’économie nationale. la collaboration avec des économies minières avancées comme l’Afrique du Sud sera essentielle pour atteindre cet objectif.”

L’accord s’inscrit également dans une dynamique régionale plus large visant à promouvoir la coopération intra-africaine dans les industries extractives. En s’appuyant sur la longue expérience de l’Afrique du Sud dans les domaines minier et géoscientifique, le Gabon se positionne pour tirer parti de l’expertise africaine tout en contribuant au développement collectif du continent.

La demande mondiale en minerais est en hausse, portée notamment par la transition énergétique et le besoin croissant de matériaux destinés aux technologies renouvelables et aux infrastructures. Grâce à de meilleures données géologiques et à des capacités techniques renforcées, le Gabon est mieux placé pour participer à ces marchés émergents et tirer davantage de valeur de ses ressources naturelles.

Dans les prochains mois, des groupes de travail conjoints devraient définir une feuille de route détaillée pour la mise en œuvre de l’accord. Les priorités initiales incluront probablement l’intégration des données, la planification des formations et l’identification de régions prioritaires pour les études géologiques. À mesure que le partenariat passera de la signature à l’action, il pourrait jouer un rôle déterminant dans l’avenir du secteur minier gabonais.

En combinant expertise, technologie et soutien institutionnel, la collaboration entre le Gabon et l’Afrique du Sud marque une étape importante dans les efforts du Gabon pour bâtir un secteur minier moderne, transparent et durable.

Distribué par APO Group pour Ministry of Mines and Geological Resources of Gabon.

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Eritrea: Commendable Health Care Provision in Southern Region

Source: APO


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At an activity assessment meeting conducted on 9 and 10 February in Mendefera, the Ministry of Health branch in the Southern Region reported that commendable health care services were provided to the public in 2025.

Dr. Amanuel Mihreteab, head of the branch office, said that as part of the efforts carried out to control the prevalence of diseases, the overall prevalence of communicable diseases, including malaria, declined by 11%.

Dr. Amanuel went on to say that, with the contribution of the public and administrations, 37 maternity waiting rooms have been constructed in various sub-zones. He further noted that the number of pregnant women delivering at health facilities has doubled, while the maternal and infant mortality rate during delivery has declined significantly.

Noting that vaccination coverage has reached 87% and the TB cure rate 93%, Dr. Amanuel commended the foot doctors assigned in various parts of the region for their role in these achievements.

According to reports from the sub-zones, eye surgeries have been performed on over 10,000 patients across the region.

Mr. Qaleab Tesfaselasie, Director General of Social Services in the region, underscored the significance of promotional and awareness-raising activities in controlling the prevalence of diseases and expressed the readiness of the regional administration to strengthen community-based efforts to address the needs of health facilities.

Addressing the meeting, Ms. Amina Nurhusein, Minister of Health, urged all health facilities to work earnestly in collaboration with the public and administrations to preserve the achievements registered so far, control the prevalence of diseases, and ensure the health of mothers and infants.

Minister Amina also observed the ongoing efforts to ensure reliable electricity and oxygen supply at the Southern Region Referral Hospital in Mendefera.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Ministry of Information, Eritrea.

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Eritrea: Beach Volleyball Competition in Connection with Operation Fenkil Commemoration

Source: APO


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A beach volleyball competition organized by the Eritrean Defense Forces in connection with the 36th anniversary of Operation Fenkil commenced on 10 February at Gurgusum Beach. The opening event was attended by Ms. Asmeret Abraha, Governor of the Northern Red Sea Region, senior regional officials, as well as a number of sports fans.

According to the Promotion and Information Unit of the Ministry of Defense, the competition, in which 11 clubs from both genders are taking part, will continue until 15 February.

The beach volleyball competition of the Eritrean Defense Forces is being conducted for the 12th time, according to the Promotion and Information Unit.

The 36th anniversary of Operation Fenkil and the liberation of Massawa, the Pearl of the Red Sea, will be held from 13 to 15 February under the theme: “Heroic Fenkil Operation: Heritage for Generations.”

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Ministry of Information, Eritrea.

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Nelson Mandela Rules Training Academy offers a second chance

Source: Government of South Africa

Nelson Mandela Rules Training Academy offers a second chance

Correctional Services Deputy Minister Lindiwe Ntshalintshali says the opening of the Nelson Mandela Rules Training Academy at Drakenstein Correctional Facility is both a historic milestone and a powerful reminder of the country’s journey since 11 February 1990.

Ntshalintshali spoke to SAnews on Wednesday following the official opening of the academy by President Cyril Ramaphosa. She described the day as deeply significant for the Department of Correctional Services and the nation.

“Today, we started at the Mandela Museum House, where [Mandela] was [taken to] before his actual release, and we walked down memory lane, and our current President was part of the team of the release committee, which was negotiating with Madiba preparing for his final release,” Ntshalintshali said.

She said being at the historic house was a moving experience, particularly witnessing President Ramaphosa reflect on his own role during the negotiations that preceded Madiba’s release.

READ | New Nelson Mandela Rules Academy signals shift toward humanised corrections

“… This day, 11 February, is very significant,” she said of the day when President Nelson Mandela was released from prison.

Ntshalintshali welcomed the President’s emphasis on preserving the site as a living heritage space to make sure that the heritage site is kept alive and it attracts people, who will in turn learn a great deal about the country’s history.

Following the visit to the museum house, the delegation proceeded to the correctional facility, where a plaque was unveiled and the Nelson Mandela Rules Training Academy was officially opened. 

Ntshalintshali said it was an honour for the Department of Correctional Services to play its part in the preservation of South Africa’s history. She said the President’s acknowledgement of correctional officials’ work under challenging and often dangerous conditions was particularly meaningful.

Reflecting on the symbolic weight of the day, Ntshalintshali said the President’s remarks during the formal launch took those in attendance  on a journey from 1990 to the present. 

“… [The past] 36 years… have changed South Africa drastically,” she said, reflecting on how the social and economic landscape has changed.

Ntshalintshali used the occasion to call on South Africans not to forget the sacrifices that shaped the country’s democracy.

“I’m calling on all South Africans to say, ‘You dare not fail’ (sic). We are a product of a struggle. Never forget where you come from and never forget what shaped and moulded you,” she said.

Turning to the role of Correctional Services, Ntshalintshali stressed that incarceration should never mean abandonment.

She said the Nelson Mandela Rules Training Academy will be pivotal in demonstrating the power of second chances. She appealed to families and communities to embrace rehabilitation and reintegration.

“Correctional Services is about community corrections, and corrections is a societal matter. Once [inmates] have served their time, they must be rehabilitated and reintegrated [into] their communities,” she said.

Ntshalintshali highlighted that much of the work showcased at the academy – from tiling and electrical work, to landscaping and furniture-making – was completed by inmates under the guidance of departmental artisans.

“We are proud to say we are rehabilitating our people… We’re saying everybody has a second chance in life,” she told SAnews.

The Nelson Mandela Rules Training Academy is expected to strengthen training and rehabilitation efforts within Correctional Services, anchored in the values of dignity, restoration and second chances that defined Madiba’s legacy. – SAnews.gov.za

DikelediM

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The International Islamic Trade Finance Corporation (ITFC) signs 2026 Annual Financing Plan with the Republic of Senegal

Source: APO

The International Islamic Trade Finance Corporation (ITFC) (www.ITFC-IDB.org), a member of the Islamic Development Bank (IsDB) Group, has signed the 2026 Annual Financing Plan with the Republic of Senegal, reaffirming its commitment to continue supporting the country’s priorities and economic development agenda.

The Annual Financing Plan was signed by Eng. Adeeb Yousuf Al-Aama, Chief Executive Officer of ITFC, and H.E. Abdourahmane Sarr, Minister of Economy, Planning and Cooperation of the Republic of Senegal.

Implemented under the EUR 2 billion, five-year Framework Agreement signed in May 2025, the 2026 Annual Financing Plan provides for the mobilisation of EUR 630 million to finance the import and export of essential commodities, including petroleum products and groundnuts. This financing plan is expected to support key sectors of the Senegalese economy, strengthen supply chains, and contribute to energy and food security.

Commenting on the signing, Eng. Adeeb Yousuf Al-Aama, CEO of ITFC, stated: “The signing of the 2026 Annual Financing Plan underscores ITFC’s commitment to continue supporting Senegal’s trade and development priorities. Through this partnership, we aim to ensure the timely availability of strategic commodities and contribute to sustainable and inclusive economic growth.”

H.E. Abdourahmane Sarr, Minister of Economy, Planning, and Cooperation of Senegal, added: “This Annual Financing Plan reflects the strength of our partnership with ITFC and its continued support for Senegal’s economic development objectives. The financing will play a critical role in supporting key sectors of our economy, enhancing trade flows, and reinforcing our efforts toward long-term economic stability.”

The signing further consolidates ITFC’s role as a trusted trade finance partner to Senegal. Since its inception in 2008, ITFC and the Republic of Senegal have maintained a strong and longstanding partnership, with a total of US$ 2.8 billion approved to support national development priorities through tailored, Shariah-compliant trade finance solutions.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of International Islamic Trade Finance Corporation (ITFC).

Contact Us:
Tel: +966 12 646 8337
Fax: +966 12 637 1064
E-mail: ITFC@itfc-idb.org

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Twitter: @ ITFCCORP
Facebook: @ ITFCCORP
LinkedIn: International Islamic Trade Finance Corporation (ITFC)

About the International Islamic Trade Finance Corporation (ITFC):
The International Islamic Trade Finance Corporation (ITFC) is a member of the Islamic Development Bank (IsDB) Group. It was established with the primary objective of advancing trade among OIC member countries, which would ultimately contribute to the overarching goal of improving socioeconomic conditions of the people across the world. Commencing operations in January 2008, ITFC has provided more than US$92 billion of financing to OIC member countries, making it the leading provider of trade solutions for these member countries’ needs. With a mission to become a catalyst for trade development for OIC member countries and beyond, the Corporation helps entities in member countries gain better access to trade finance and provides them with the necessary trade-related capacity building tools, which would enable them to successfully compete in the global market.

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Société Internationale Islamique de Financement du Commerce (ITFC) signe un plan de Financement Annuel 2026 avec la République du Sénégal

Source: Africa Press Organisation – French

La Société Internationale Islamique de Financement du Commerce (ITFC) (www.ITFC-IDB.org), membre du Groupe de la Banque islamique de développement (BID), a signé le Plan de financement annuel 2026 avec la République du Sénégal, réaffirmant ainsi son engagement à continuer à soutenir les priorités du gouvernement met le programme de développement économique du pays.

Le plan de financement annuel a été signé par M. Adeeb Yousuf Al-Aama, directeur général de l’ITFC, et M. Abdourahmane Sarr, ministre de l’Économie, du Plan et de la Coopération de la République du Sénégal.

Mis en œuvre dans le cadre de l’accord-cadre quinquennal de 2 milliards d’euros signé en mai 2025, le plan de financement annuel 2026 prévoit la mobilisation de 630 millions d’euros pour financer l’importation et l’exportation de produits de base essentiels, tels que les produits pétroliers et les arachides. Ces financements vont soutenir des secteurs clés de l’économie sénégalaise, renforcer les chaînes d’approvisionnement et contribuer à la sécurité énergétique et alimentaire.

Commentant la signature, Adeeb Yousuf Al-Aama, PDG de l’ITFC, a déclaré : « La signature du plan de financement annuel 2026 souligne l’engagement de l’ITFC à continuer à soutenir les priorités du Sénégal en matière de commerce et de développement. Grâce à ce partenariat, nous voulons garantir la disponibilité en temps voulu des produits stratégiques et contribuer à une croissance économique durable et inclusive. »

S.E.M. Abdourahmane Sarr, ministre de l’Économie, du Plan et de la Coopération du Sénégal, a ajouté : « Ce plan de financement annuel reflète la solidité de notre partenariat avec l’ITFC et son soutien continu aux objectifs de développement économique du Sénégal. Ce financement jouera un rôle essentiel dans le soutien des secteurs clés de notre économie, l’amélioration des flux commerciaux et le renforcement de nos efforts en faveur d’une stabilité économique à long terme. »

La signature vient renforcer davantage le rôle de l’ITFC en tant que partenaire de confiance en financement du commerce pour le Sénégal. Depuis sa création en 2008, l’ITFC et la République du Sénégal entretiennent un partenariat solide et de longue date, avec un montant total de 2,8 milliards de dollars US approuvé pour soutenir les priorités nationales de développement à travers des solutions de financement du commerce sur mesure et conformes à la charia.

Distribué par APO Group pour International Islamic Trade Finance Corporation (ITFC).

Contactez-nous :
Tél. : +966 12 646 8337
Fax : +966 12 637 1064
E-mail : ITFC@itfc-idb.org

Réseaux sociaux :
Twitter : @ ITFCCORP
Facebook : @ ITFCCORP
LinkedIn : International Islamic Trade Finance Corporation (ITFC)

À propos de la Société Islamique Internationale de Financement du Commerce (ITFC) :
La Société Internationale Islamique de Financement du Commerce (ITFC) est membre du Groupe de la Banque Islamique de Développement (BID). Elle a été créée dans le but principal de promouvoir le commerce entre les pays membres de l’OCI, ce qui contribuerait à terme à l’objectif global d’amélioration des conditions socio-économiques des populations à travers le monde. Depuis le début de ses activités en janvier 2008, l’ITFC a fourni plus de 92 milliards de dollars américains de financement aux pays membres de l’OCI, ce qui en fait le principal fournisseur de solutions commerciales répondant aux besoins de ces pays membres. Ayant pour mission de devenir un catalyseur du développement commercial des pays membres de l’OCI et au-delà, la société aide les entités des pays membres à obtenir un meilleur accès au financement du commerce et leur fournit les outils nécessaires au renforcement des capacités commerciales, ce qui leur permet d’être compétitives sur le marché mondial.

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Passation de service à la Présidence sous le signe de la continuité et de la consolidation

Source: Africa Press Organisation – French

L’Association Professionnelle des Banques et Établissements Financiers du Sénégal (APBEFS) (www.APBEF.sn) a procédé le 5 février à la passation de service entre la Présidente sortante, Madame Khady Boye HANNE, et le Président par intérim, Monsieur Sahid YALLOU. 

Madame Khady Boye HANNE a exercé successivement les fonctions de Première Vice-Présidente, puis, depuis le 14 janvier 2025, celles de Présidente de l’APBEFS, à la suite de son élection par acclamation. 

Son mandat a été marqué par un renforcement de la structuration interne de l’Association, une redynamisation de ses commissions techniques et un dialogue soutenu avec les autorités publiques et monétaires, dans un contexte de transformation du secteur bancaire. 

Sous sa présidence, l’APBEFS a notamment contribué au rapprochement entre les établissements bancaires et leurs usagers, à la promotion de mécanismes de financement adaptés aux PME/PMI, ainsi qu’à l’accompagnement des chantiers de modernisation et de digitalisation du secteur financier, en lien avec les institutions compétentes et les parties prenantes concernées. 

La communauté bancaire salue le travail accompli par Madame Khady Boye HANNE, ainsi que son engagement en faveur de la cohésion de la profession et du financement de l’économie sénégalaise. 

« La Présidence de l’APBEFS a été pour moi une responsabilité collective, exercée dans un esprit de dialogue, de rigueur et de service au secteur bancaire. Je me réjouis que les chantiers engagés puissent se poursuivre dans une dynamique de continuité et de renforcement du rôle des banques au service de l’économie sénégalaise », a déclaré Madame Khady Boye HANNE. 

La Présidence par intérim de l’APBEFS est désormais assurée par Monsieur Sahid YALLOU, qui occupait jusqu’alors les fonctions de Premier Vice-Président de l’Association. 

Directeur Général de Ecobank Sénégal, il dispose d’une solide expérience du secteur bancaire et d’une connaissance approfondie des enjeux liés au financement de l’économie, à la gestion des risques et à la modernisation des services financiers. Il assurera l’intérim de la Présidence jusqu’à la tenue de la prochaine élection, conformément aux statuts de l’Association. 

À travers cette transition, l’APBEFS réaffirme sa volonté de poursuivre les chantiers engagés, de renforcer le rôle du secteur bancaire dans le financement de l’économie nationale et de maintenir un dialogue constructif avec l’ensemble des parties prenantes, dans un esprit de responsabilité et d’amélioration continue. 

Distribué par APO Group pour Association Professionnelle des Banques et Établissements Financiers du Sénégal (APBEFS).

Contact presse : 
François KOUELI
Responsable communication & relations publiques
francois@globalmindconsulting.com
+221 772002049

À propos de l’APBEFS :
Créée en 1965, l’Association Professionnelle des Banques et Établissements Financiers du Sénégal (APBEFS) est l’organisation faîtière représentant les banques et établissements financiers exerçant au Sénégal. Elle veille à la défense des intérêts de la profession, à la promotion d’un secteur bancaire solide et responsable, ainsi qu’au dialogue permanent avec les autorités publiques et les parties prenantes économiques, en faveur du financement durable de l’économie nationale.

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Secretary-General of Ministry of Foreign Affairs Meets Political Director of Cypriot Foreign Ministry

Source: Government of Qatar

Doha | February 11, 2026

HE Secretary-General of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Dr. Ahmed bin Hassan Al Hammadi met with HE Political Director of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Cyprus Thessalia Salina Shambos, who is currently visiting the country.
During the meeting, they reviewed bilateral cooperation relations and ways to support and develop them, in addition to discussing a number of issues of mutual interest.

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Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) Conducts District Sensitization Tour in Sierra Leone

Source: APO – Report:

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Led by the Minister of Planning and Economic Development, Madam Kenyeh Barlay, in company of the ECOWAS Resident Representative to Sierra Leone, H.E. Ambassador John Azumah, senior officials of the Ministry of Planning and Economic Development (MoPED), the ECOWAS National Office, the ECOWAS Political Advisor, a senior official of the National Early Warning and Response Mechanism Centre (NEWRMC), and a senior official from the Ministry of Trade and Commerce. The mission engaged in school sensitization sessions and district-level stakeholder meetings.

The sensitization tour covered Kambia District (Kambia), Koinadugu District (Kabala), Tonkolili District (Magburaka), and Kono District (Koidu). It adopted a two-track engagement approach comprising school-based sensitization sessions and district-level stakeholders’ meetings in each district.

At the school sensitization sessions, held in two secondary schools per district, students were introduced to ECOWAS’ mandate, history, and contributions to peace, education, youth empowerment, and regional integration. Interactive discussions and question-and-answer sessions allowed students to engage directly with the delegation and deepen their understanding of ECOWAS as a community of people.

Following the school engagements, district-level stakeholders’ meetings were convened with district authorities, traditional leaders, civil society organizations, youth and women’s groups, security actors, traders, persons with disability (PWD), and the media. Discussions focused on ECOWAS’ role in peace and security, democratic governance, trade facilitation, youth employment, women’s empowerment, food security, and regional economic integration, in line with ECOWAS Vision 2050: “ECOWAS of the People – Peace and Prosperity for All.”

In her remarks, the Minister of Planning and Economic Development highlighted the strong alignment between ECOWAS’ regional priorities and Sierra Leone’s national development agenda, while underscoring Sierra Leone’s active role within the Community. The ECOWAS Resident Representative reiterated ECOWAS’ commitment to strengthening peace, security, and socio-economic development placing people at the center of development, emphasizing that regional integration must deliver tangible benefits to ordinary citizens.

The participation of the National Early Warning and Response Mechanism reinforced discussions on preventive diplomacy and community-level security, while the Ministry of Trade and Commerce provided clarifications on ECOWAS trade instruments, including the ECOWAS Trade Liberalisation Scheme (ETLS) and regional market integration frameworks.

Across all districts visited, the tour recorded strong participation and high levels of engagement, with stakeholders expressing appreciation for ECOWAS’ continued presence and contributions to Sierra Leone’s peace, stability, and development. The mission also generated valuable feedback to inform future ECOWAS programming and district-level engagement strategies.

– on behalf of Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS).