Chijioke Iremeka
The United Nations Deputy Secretary-General, Amina Mohammed, says rapidly evolving global political, social, environmental, and security challenges are jeopardizing peace and economic development across West African states.
She stated this at an event commemorating the 49th anniversary of the Economic Community of West African States on Sunday.
Mohammed reiterated the importance of a multilateral and inclusive response, while noting progress made by the ECOWAS, alongside immediate challenges.
According to her, over the last decade, the region has seen an exponential rise in terrorism that has reversed its development and gains.
She said this has been further exacerbated by the resurgence of unconstitutional government changes that poses a significant threat to regional stability.
Mohammed noted that humanitarian needs are rising amid the web of crises, “creating new dynamics, bringing new risks of conflicts, beyond the region.”
“ECOWAS at 49 serves as a reminder that the road ahead is challenging, but it is also filled with potential. This requires both a multilateral and regional response to the complexities each country faces.”
On the need for collective solutions, the Deputy Secretary-General underscored the need to use all existing tools, while also designing new solutions collectively to meet the expectations of the people.
She said, “Peace and security must underpin the ‘Vision for Africa’ in the African Union’s Agenda 2063 socio-economic development framework, with a strong emphasis on strong democratic institutions.
“The values of democracy and good governance still hold for our region. But recent developments tell us that populations are putting in question our models of democracy and the need to be made fit for purpose in line with local realities.”
She urged that the root causes of regional conflicts should be addressed to ensure stability in West Africa.
Mohammed noted that the Sustainable Development Goals, which are the blueprint to achieve a better and more sustainable future for all, are woefully off track in the region and must be rescued.
“The SDGs address the global challenges we face, including those related to poverty, inequality, climate change, environmental degradation, peace and justice.
“The 17 Goals are all interconnected, and to leave no one behind, it is important that we achieve them all by 2030.
“Efforts must be stepped up to achieve the development targets by the 2030 deadline, with bold and transformative actions.”
She emphasised the need for investments in just energy transitions, food systems, digital connectivity, education, and skills, as well as in climate action and social protection.
Mohammed noted that September’s Summit of the Future provides a ‘once-in-a-generation opportunity’ to address gaps in global governance, including for peace and security as part of the Secretary-General’s New Agenda for Peace.
In that context, she noted, Africa will be a vital player in finding ways to end existing conflicts and prevent new ones with women playing a central role.
Mohammed added, “As negotiations for a new Pact for the Future (the outcome of the Summit of the Future) intensify, I encourage all of you to engage in all aspects.”
She reiterated the necessity for an immediate humanitarian ceasefire in Gaza, the unconditional release of all hostages, and a pathway to a lasting two-state solution.
“We are united in our call for peace, for silencing the guns across Africa, and for working to end all conflicts around the world,” she added.
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