ECOWAS and WiLDAF Strengthen Capacities of Women Cross-Border Traders in The Gambia
The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) Commission, in partnership with Women in Law and Development in Africa (WiLDAF), conducted a five-day training workshop in Banjul, The Gambia, from May 18 to May 22, 2026. The primary aim of this initiative is to enhance the skills and knowledge of women traders and entrepreneurs in the agribusiness sector, enabling them to navigate the legal, regulatory, and policy frameworks that govern their business activities effectively.
Commitment to Women’s Empowerment
During the opening session, Mrs. Miatta French, the ECOWAS Permanent Representative to The Gambia, spoke on behalf of Dr. Kalilou Sylla, the Commissioner for Economic Affairs and Agriculture. She reiterated the Commission’s dedication to fostering a people-centered community that promotes peace and shared prosperity. This workshop aligns with ECOWAS Vision 2050, which prioritizes women and youth in the region’s development agenda.
French highlighted the significant role women play in cross-border trade and acknowledged the progress made in recent years toward their empowerment. She emphasized ongoing initiatives aimed at improving the conditions for women entrepreneurs and traders throughout the region.
Strategic Framework for Women in Trade
A notable aspect of the workshop is the three-year work plan established by the Women in Trade Sub-Committee under the Regional Trade Facilitation framework. This plan includes targeted interventions such as developing women-friendly border infrastructure, implementing a simplified trade regime, and creating effective mechanisms for reporting harassment at border crossings. These strategic actions aim to create a more supportive environment for women engaged in trade.
Economic Integration and Trade Dynamics
Mr. Jammeh, the Deputy Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Trade, Industry, Regional Integration, and Employment, emphasized the importance of cross-border trade as a vital driver of economic integration and resilience in West Africa. He noted that this trade facilitates the movement of goods and services across national borders, strengthens regional value chains, and promotes the free movement of people—key elements of the ECOWAS vision.
He further pointed out that informal cross-border trade constitutes a significant portion of regional commerce, playing a crucial role in supporting livelihoods, alleviating poverty, and enhancing food security. Women are particularly instrumental in these trading activities, forming the backbone of this sector.
Collaboration and Structural Barriers
Mme. Antoinette Mbrou, the West Africa Coordinator for WiLDAF, expressed gratitude to the Female Lawyers Association of The Gambia (FLAG) for their collaboration and commitment to the workshop’s objectives. She stressed the necessity of strengthening partnerships among civil society organizations, public institutions, and regional stakeholders to promote women’s participation in trade. Such collaborations are essential for overcoming the structural barriers that limit women’s economic potential.
In her closing remarks, Mbrou asserted that investing in women yields transformative and lasting benefits. She argued that educating women strengthens families, supporting women traders stimulates economic growth, and empowering women contributes to sustainable progress in food security and overall regional development.
Training Outcomes and Advocacy Development
Throughout the workshop, participants gained a comprehensive understanding of the legal frameworks governing cross-border trade in West Africa, particularly in The Gambia. They developed skills to identify and comply with the necessary documentation for lawful business operations and recognized the importance of formalizing their economic activities for both immediate and long-term benefits.
The training also enhanced participants’ communication and advocacy skills, equipping them to engage effectively with decision-makers and advocate for their economic rights. Collectively, they formulated a structured advocacy plan outlining priority actions to pursue with relevant authorities. Additionally, a mobilization and awareness-raising strategy was established to empower women traders within their communities, promoting more inclusive and sustainable regional trade practices.
Source: www.zawya.com
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Published on 2026-06-05 22:42:00 • By the Editorial Desk
