ECOWAS Resident Representative wants security framework implemented

The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) Resident Representative Josephine Nkrumah wants the ECOWAS Security Sector Reform and Governance (SSRG) framework to be implemented.

Speaking at the start of a workshop in Monrovia, Ambassador Nkrumah said part of the framework is to support and promote regional peace including security and stability which ECOWAS member states must prioritize.

The ongoing phase of the ECOWAS SSRG training forum, which runs from August 9-12, is targeting Liberia, Nigeria and Niger.

It is in an effort to build the capacity of stakeholders and institutions in the security sector and relevant oversight territories within ECOWAS member states. 

According to the ECOWAS envoy, the framework aims to complement nationally-led initiatives, and promote regional security coordination and cooperation so as to effectively tackle new and emerging security challenges.

She pointed out that the framework is not in any way intended to replace the National Security Strategy, or National SSR Strategy.

Rather, she said it seeks to complement these efforts.

“I must reiterate the objectives of the ECOWAS SSRG Policy Framework which are to promote common security standards in the region, complement nationally-led initiatives, and promote regional security coordination and cooperation,” she said.

She indicated that the SSRG is a vital link in the ECOWAS regional security umbrella, noting that the unique value of the SSRG Policy Framework lies in its comprehensive approach to “connected security” in the region.

“This means that improving the efficiency, effectiveness, accountability and responsiveness of security service provision, management and oversight will have a domino effect of also enhancing national and regional efforts in conflict prevention…,” she continued.

She also mentioned preventing and countering terrorism and violent extremism, improving maritime security governance, combating transnational organised crime, as well as controlling small arms and light weapons proliferation.

Also in remarks, Acting Foreign Minister Ambassador Jarjar M. Kamara stressed the need for the region to invest more in early warning mechanisms, enhancing cordial relations based on friendship and cooperation.

He called on member states to double up on integration, be it in economics or politics or both.

“It will interest you to know that the major achievement of ECOWAS is the consolidation of peace and security in conflict-affected countries of our sub-region,” he said. 

“Politics was not envisaged 47 years ago when ECOWAS was founded. But since the famous deployment of ECOMOG on Liberian soil on August 23, 1990, the organization has grown into a formidable and potent regional body that is respected in terms of achievements.”

“Let us continue to build on this success,” he noted. —Dispatch