AfYEF Oversees ECOWAS HCD Youth Conference in Accra
The ECOWAS Human Capital Development (HCD) Youth Conference has ended in Accra with a call for youth across West Africa to strengthen collaboration in trade, empowerment, and inclusive development.
The two-day conference, held under the theme: “Fostering a Region that is More Economically Inclusive and Peaceful,” brought together young entrepreneurs and leaders from ECOWAS member states.
The event formed part of activities marking the 50th anniversary of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS).
The AfCFTA Young Entrepreneurs Federation (AfYEF) played a crucial role in organizing the event as beyond overseeing the extent, they also extended invitation to its members in Ecowas to travel to Ghana to participate in the event.
Founding President, Prince Siita Sofo Hissan said being chosen as part of organisers of the sub bloc event was an an endorsement of AfYEF’s growing influence and credibility among political and business leaders.
During the event, Prince Hissan shared his entrepreneurial journey with participants and encouraged young Africans to remain resilient in the face of challenges. He called on youth across the continent to pursue innovation and collaboration as they strive toward success.
The conference which began on April 29 and ended on April 30, 2025, aligns with the ECOWAS’s new strategy to enhance the visibility and implementation of youth-focused policies at both regional and national levels.
Ghana’s Minister of Youth Development, George Opare Addo, also addressed the gathering and stressed the importance of collaboration in nurturing youth empowerment and human capital development.
He advocated the need for inclusive policies that ensure equitable access to opportunities regardless of gender, ethnicity, or socioeconomic background.
“Young people represent the most significant demographic and greatest human resource in the ECOWAS region,” Mr. Addo stated.
“Investing in them is not only a moral obligation but also a critical strategy for sustainable development and inclusive economic growth.”
Vice President of the ECOWAS Commission, Mrs. Damtien Larbli Tchintchibidja, identified unemployment and underemployment as major challenges facing West African youth.
She announced plans to establish an ECOWAS Youth Mentorship and Apprenticeship Network to connect young people with real African entrepreneurs, providing them with practical experience and professional guidance.
Participants at the conference expressed optimism that the outcomes would lead to stronger regional partnerships and actionable initiatives that address the needs and aspirations of West African youth.
