The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has convened a two-day meeting in Accra, Ghana, beginning Tuesday, to deliberate on the withdrawal of Niger, Mali, and Burkina Faso from the regional bloc.
The meeting brings together representatives from ECOWAS member states to discuss the modalities and implications of the trio’s departure, which was officially announced in January.
According to a statement issued by the bloc, the agenda includes evaluating the impact on ECOWAS institutions and agencies operating within the withdrawing countries.
ECOWAS also revealed plans to establish a structure that will facilitate dialogue with Niger, Mali, and Burkina Faso on the terms and logistics of their withdrawal.
“This session is being held to deliberate on the withdrawal of Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger from the regional bloc,” the statement read.
“Key items on the agenda include the modalities of the withdrawal process and the implications for ECOWAS institutions and agencies operating in the three countries. The session will also address other related matters of regional importance.”
The high-level discussions come three weeks after the three junta-led nations—now united under the Alliance of Sahel States (AES) — introduced a 0.5% import duty on goods from ECOWAS countries.
The levy, which excludes humanitarian aid, marks a significant shift away from ECOWAS’s principle of free movement of goods and people across member states.
The imposition of the import duty is viewed as a direct challenge to ECOWAS efforts to maintain economic ties with the AES nations, despite their formal exit.
The new policy underscores the growing divide between the regional bloc and the Sahelian trio, raising questions about the future of regional cooperation and integration.
Further updates from the Accra meeting are expected as discussions continue into Wednesday.
