The West African Economic and Monetary Union (UEMOA) held a national workshop in Bissau on March 20, 2025, to present and discuss the “UEMOA 2040 Perspective Vision” and the 2025-2030 Strategic Plan. The workshop, attended by over fifty technicians from various sectors, aimed to engage participants in understanding the new benchmarks set for UEMOA’s future development and the steps required for successful implementation.
The Commissioner of UEMOA, Paul Koffi KOFFI, highlighted that the development of these strategic documents followed a participatory approach, involving all key stakeholders such as government, private sector, civil society, and financial partners. He emphasized the importance of aligning national development plans with the UEMOA 2040 Vision and called for collaboration from all parties to ensure successful implementation.
Koffi KOFFI outlined the main challenges identified by UEMOA populations, including security, governance, and economic transformation, particularly focusing on industrialization and reducing non-tariff barriers to enhance intra-community trade. He also stressed the significance of free movement and improving public finance management to reach the common market goals.
Guinea-Bissau’s Finance Ministry Technical Advisor, Mohamed Baldé, underlined the importance of the workshop, noting that it would help align national policies with UEMOA’s integration goals, ensuring that the country’s development initiatives are consistent with broader regional strategies.
Author: Tiffany Bright
Cape Verde to Honor Freedom Fighter Osvaldo Aranda de Azevedo on Independence Day
The President of Cape Verde, José Maria Neves, announced that Osvaldo Aranda de Azevedo, a national independence freedom fighter, will be honored as part of the country’s 50th Independence Day celebrations. The tribute recognizes Azevedo’s contributions as a writer, artist, and journalist who played a key role in the struggle for independence.
Speaking at Azevedo’s burial ceremony in Ribeira Brava, President Neves emphasized the importance of recognizing other historical figures from São Nicolau, such as Dr. Júlio Dias and medical captain Camões, for their contributions to the island. He also highlighted the need to preserve historical sites like the old Marica cemetery, which holds significant ties to the abolition of slavery.
Additionally, during his visit to the Ribeira Brava Health Department, the President acknowledged improvements in healthcare services but stressed the need for better specialist consultations and improved transport connectivity to support medical evacuations. He pledged to work with authorities to enhance historical preservation efforts and healthcare infrastructure across Cape Verde.
WACSOF Hails ECOWAS at 50, Advocates for Deeper Regional Integration and Strengthening Democracy in West Africa.
The Regional General Secretary of the West African Civil Society Forum (WACSOF), Mr. James Ugochukwu, has applauded ECOWAS for its 50 years of promoting regional economic integration, democracy, and sustainable growth.
Reflecting on the institution’s 50th anniversary, he emphasized the importance of continuing ECOWAS’s founding mandate of regional cooperation while fostering collaboration with key stakeholders. In an exclusive interview with Paradigm News in Abuja, Nigeria, Mr. Ugochukwu highlighted the significant role WACSOF plays in the region, noting that the organization was created to provide a structured platform for Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) across ECOWAS member states. He explained that WACSOF’s mission revolves around promoting regional integration and socio-economic development, with partnerships between WACSOF and ECOWAS growing over the years through collaboration in policy discussions, human rights advocacy, electoral monitoring, and peace-building initiatives.
“Over the years, we’ve made meaningful contributions to democratic governance and human rights advocacy,” Mr. Ugochukwu stated, “but we must acknowledge that civil society voices have not always been given the weight they deserve in decision-making.”
As ECOWAS marks its 50th year, questions have been raised about the effectiveness of the partnership between ECOWAS and WACSOF in fostering regional integration and addressing socio-political challenges. Reflecting on this, Mr. Ugochukwu affirmed that ECOWAS’s journey is one of regional cooperation, but stressed that more needs to be done: “Our collaboration, especially in democratic governance, electoral observation, and human rights, has been transformative, but the true success of this partnership lies in ensuring long-term stability, peace, and integration.”
The recent withdrawal of Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger from ECOWAS has ignited intense debates across the region. WACSOF, however, stresses the importance of unity. “The exit of these nations is concerning, but dialogue must remain open,” said Mr. Ugochukwu. “We encourage ECOWAS to approach this situation with inclusivity and diplomacy to reintegrate these nations back, ensuring that regional unity is not compromised.”
Addressing the growing concern over military coups, particularly in Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger, Mr. Ugochukwu underscored that WACSOF remains committed to advocating for constitutional democracy and accountability. “Military takeovers reflect the failures of governance,” he said. “We must focus on strengthening democratic institutions and promoting inclusive governance to address the root causes of instability.”
On the issue of African sovereignty, Mr. Ugochukwu emphasized the importance of discussing the role of France in the region, especially concerning the Sahel insurgency. “External influence should align with the sovereignty and aspirations of West African nations,” he remarked, acknowledging that while external support may be necessary, regional solutions must take precedence.
Looking ahead, Mr. Ugochukwu outlined WACSOF’s vision for the future of West Africa, advocating for a stronger partnership between ECOWAS and civil society organizations to develop people-centered policies. “We want to foster long-term stability and inclusive economic growth,” he said. “By consolidating our partnership with ECOWAS, we can ensure a more democratic and prosperous West Africa.”
WACSOF has also called on ECOWAS leaders to urgently uphold democratic principles, strengthen security cooperation, and prioritize economic development. Mr. Ugochukwu urged governments to listen to their people, emphasizing the essential role of civil society in holding leaders accountable and pushing for reforms. “Only through collective action can we achieve lasting peace and progress,” he noted.
Speaking on the role of youth, Mr. Ugochukwu sent a powerful message to the young people of West Africa. “The future of West Africa lies in your hands,” he said, urging young people to actively engage in governance and become champions of positive change. “Civil society is a powerful tool for shaping a better future,” he concluded.
As the region faces a period of uncertainty and transition, WACSOF remains dedicated to advocating for a future of democracy, peace, and sustainable development in West Africa.
By Raymond Enoch
Liberia Land Authority Introduces Secure Land Deeds to Combat Fraud
The Liberia Land Authority (LLA) has introduced a new land deed form with
enhanced security features to curb illegal land sales and ensure lawful ownership.
Announced by LLA Chairman Samuel F. Kpakio on March 21, 2025, the
initiative aims to restore public trust in land governance.
With support from Swiss partners, LLA staff have been trained to verify land
deeds, a process that will be decentralized to county offices. Additionally, a
moratorium on public land transactions has been imposed in specific areas,
requiring all landholders to submit their agreements for verification by March 31,
2025.
Kpakio also announced reforms, including a land valuation system in
collaboration with the Liberia Revenue Authority (LRA), comprehensive audits
by the General Auditing Commission (GAC) and Internal Audit Agency (IAA),
and the creation of specialized land dispute resolution units. The Legal Division
will be strengthened to tackle fraudulent land transactions, and a Compliance Unit
will be formed to enforce legal land dealings.
Kpakio emphasized that these reforms represent not just change but a renewal of
Liberia’s land governance system, ensuring secure land rights and promoting
transparency.