The Economic Community of West African States has reaffirmed its commitment to empowering micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises as key drivers of regional economic growth and development.

Massandjé Toure-Litse, ECOWAS’ commissioner for economic affairs and agriculture, stated this during a meeting of the ECOWAS Small-Scale Business Coalition in Praia, Cape Verde, on Monday.

Ms Toure-Litse urged member states to collaborate in shaping actionable strategies for integration, competitiveness, and innovation.

She also encouraged them to harness the African Continental Free Trade Area to boost industrialisation, strengthen trade frameworks, and attract investments that turn challenges into opportunities.

According to her, the coalition is a beacon of hope and well-positioned to create jobs, empower women and youth, and enhance economic cooperation among member states.

Ms Toure-Litse described the formation of ESBC as a milestone that underscores the coalition’s determination to drive economic growth, innovation, and empowerment across the subregion.

She noted that ESBC had established a thriving ecosystem that supports businesses and communities, highlighting the coalition’s progress and inspiring achievements.

Abdulrashid Yerima, ESBC president, said the event’s theme was not just a slogan but a clarion call to action for economic transformation.

He said AfCFTA and the ECOWAS Trade Liberalisation Scheme were gateways to unlocking opportunities for millions of women-led businesses.

Mr Yerima stressed that investing in women’s access to finance, digital tools, and cross-border markets is essential for fostering sustainable growth that benefits entire communities.

He described the event as a tribute to the resilience of women in West Africa and beyond, whose leadership and innovation are shaping a future of shared prosperity.

(NAN)