ECOWAS youth, sports and development ministers resolved at a 27-28 October 2026 Accra consultation to develop a costed Regional Action Plan on Youth, Peace and Security and establish a regional basket fund to finance it.
The meeting, convened under the theme “Advancing Youth, Peace and Security in West Africa: Strengthening Regional Cooperation, Knowledge Sharing and Strategic Partnerships,” brought together government representatives, ECOWAS institutions, the African Union Commission, civil society organisations, development partners and youth leaders from across the region.
According to a report from the Economic Community of West African States, the consultation reviewed progress in implementing United Nations Security Council Resolution 2250 and the African Union Continental Framework on Youth, Peace and Security.
Discussions centred on strengthening National Action Plans, improving coordination, mobilising resources and closing the gap between policy commitments and practical implementation.
Financing and coordination decisions
The ministers resolved to strengthen youth leadership and representation in decision-making, institutionalise regional coordination mechanisms, and set up a regional YPS Basket Fund intended to mobilise predictable and sustainable financing from member states, development partners, financial institutions and the private sector.
A regional YPS Steering Committee is to provide coordination and oversight for implementation.
They also called for stronger national ownership and implementation mechanisms, including quotas to increase youth representation in political and decision-making processes.
Other stated priorities included investment in youth leadership, research, documentation and mentorship, sustainable financing arrangements, and addressing emerging issues related to artificial intelligence, cybersecurity and digital peacebuilding.
The ECOWAS Commission used the meeting to call on member states to support adoption of the Regional Action Plan and to accelerate implementation of the YPS Agenda, stressing the need to translate regional and international commitments into concrete action.
It also emphasised strengthening collaboration with civil society organisations and development partners.
What officials said in Accra
Mr Abdullai Osman Ayariga, Esq., representing Ghana’s Minister of Youth Development and Empowerment, called in his opening remarks for collective action, stronger partnerships and increased national budget allocations to ensure meaningful youth participation and measurable results.
Ambassador Lawan Gana of the ECOWAS Representation in Ghana underscored the importance of meaningful youth participation and leadership in sustaining regional peace.
Mr Alassane Diallo, Director General for Youth Affairs, representing the Chair of the Council, H.E. Djireye Clotilde Coly, Minister of Youth and Sport of the Republic of Senegal, urged young people to take an active role in nation-building, peacebuilding and sustainable development, emphasising that they must not be left behind in efforts to transform communities and build lasting peace.
In their deliberations, the ministers stressed the need for effective coordination frameworks, the integration of YPS priorities into broader youth development programmes, stronger strategic partnerships, and improved joint planning and coordination mechanisms.
The consultation reaffirmed the ministers’ commitment to advancing the YPS Agenda through stronger partnerships, accountable implementation and meaningful youth participation.
Comments