....Allocates USD 1,036,416
The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has officially launched a humanitarian support initiative to assist persons of concern in the Republic of Côte d’Ivoire, allocating USD 1,036,416 to support displaced persons and host communities.
Acting on behalf of the President of the ECOWAS Commission. Dr. Omar Alieu Touray, and the Commissioner for Human Development and Social Affairs, Prof. Fatou Sow Sarr, the initiative was unveiled by Dr. Sintiki Tarfa-Ugbe, Director of the ECOWAS Humanitarian and Social Affairs Directorate, reaffirming ECOWAS’ steadfast commitment to regional solidarity, compassion, and resilience.
According to ECOWAS Directorate of Communication in a statement on Thursday, West Africa continues to face the effects of conflict, climate shocks, and socio-political instability, resulting in widespread displacement.
Known for its hospitality, Côte d’Ivoire has long provided refuge to displaced persons from neighboring countries such as Liberia, Guinea, Burkina Faso, and Mali, and currently hosts over one million persons of concern, according to UNHCR estimates as of September 2025.
In solidarity with the Ivorian government and people, ECOWAS has allocated USD 1,036,416 to support displaced persons and host communities, underscoring that humanitarian assistance is not merely financial aid but a shared moral and regional responsibility to ensure that no one is left behind.
Speaking at the launch, Dr. Sintiki Tarfa-Ugbe reaffirmed ECOWAS’ unwavering commitment to protecting and improving the lives of persons of concern, those displaced or rendered stateless by conflict and natural disasters, while promoting regional solidarity, resilience and dedication to humanitarian action and inclusive development.
“This initiative is a testament to our belief that regional challenges require regional solutions. Through collaboration, innovation, and compassion, we can build a West Africa where every person lives in safety, dignity, and hope.”
The Resident Representative of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), Mr. Olivier Guillaume Beer, lauded the initiative as “the result of exemplary collaboration”.