President John Dramani Mahama has called for a renewed focus on dialogue and diplomacy to rebuild the unity of West Africa, emphasizing Ghana’s readiness to act as a bridge in re-establishing trust and cohesion within the region.
In his keynote address at the Golden Jubilee Celebration of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) in Accra, Mahama acknowledged the recent withdrawal of Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger from the bloc as a regrettable setback, but underscored that continuous engagement, rather than isolation, remains key to resolving tensions.
“Even in this difficult moment, dialogue must remain our guiding star,” Mahama said, emphasizing the importance of understanding and listening in diplomatic relations. He expressed his belief that through sustained dialogue and patient diplomacy, the sub-region could overcome challenges and restore unity.
He further highlighted Ghana’s proactive efforts, including appointing a special envoy to facilitate high-level discussions with the Sahelian states, and his personal missions aimed at rebuilding communication and trust within the sub-region.
President Mahama urged ECOWAS to strengthen its diplomatic tools to ensure peace, inclusion, and progress, stressing that the organization’s influence must extend beyond political and economic matters to include social and cultural dimensions as well.
Echoing Mahama’s sentiments, Nigerian President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, represented by his Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, lauded Mahama’s leadership and commitment to regional integration. Dr. Omar Alieu Touray, President of the ECOWAS Commission, also reflected on the anniversary’s significance, calling for reflection and recalibration of the community’s objectives.
In a compelling call to action, Mahama stressed the importance of empowering ECOWAS institutions and investing in early warning systems, peace-building capacities, and youth and women’s involvement in the region’s stability. “Let this 50th anniversary be a turning point for diplomacy in West Africa,” he concluded.
