On Tuesday, December 5, 2023, the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) and the Media Foundation for West Africa (MFWA) actively strengthened democratic values, media freedom, and human rights in West Africa by signing a four-year Memorandum of Understanding (MoU). Dr. Omar Alieu Touray, President of the ECOWAS Commission, and Sulemana Braimah, Executive Director of the MFWA, committed to this agreement, aiming to enhance cooperation between the two organizations.
This partnership strategically targets key areas, including bolstering media capacity to support democratic norms, combating narratives of violent extremism and misinformation, advancing media freedom and expression both online and offline, and boosting public awareness of ECOWAS and its activities across member states.
During the signing ceremony, ECOWAS Commissioner for Political Affairs, Peace and Security (PAPS), Ambassador Abdel-Fatau Musah, underscored the MFWA’s vital role in meeting regional challenges. He recognized the media’s crucial role in mobilizing public opinion in favor of democratic values and countering the surge in anti-democratic narratives.
According to a report by the Daily Graphic, Commissioner Musah highlighted the MoU’s importance in realizing ECOWAS’ vision 2050, centered on peace and prosperity for all in the region, and praised the media for its significant role in achieving this vision.
Sulemana Braimah, MFWA’s Executive Director, shared his excitement about formalizing the relationship between ECOWAS and MFWA. He sees this collaboration as an excellent chance to pool resources and address the critical issues facing West Africa effectively.
The signing event, attended by ECOWAS senior officials and MFWA staff, marked the beginning of a collaborative journey to reinforce democracy and media freedom throughout West Africa.
