Abuja, Nigeria – The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) is prioritizing inclusivity in the formation of its upcoming Regional Business Council (EBC). The bloc’s Commissioner for Economic Affairs and Agriculture, Massandje Toure Litsé, has tasked a technical committee with ensuring that the council represents the diverse business landscape across the region.
Litsé emphasized the crucial role of the EBC in driving the region’s economic growth and competitiveness, particularly in the context of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA). She stressed the importance of involving micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in the council’s composition.
The commissioner highlighted the need for prominent business leaders to represent the sector at ECOWAS decision-making levels. The technical committee is currently finalizing the council’s structure, operations, and membership criteria.
The EBC is expected to be launched by December 2024.
