The United States Agency for International Development (USAID) and the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) have launched the ECOWAS Gender Observatory (ECOGO), a cutting-edge web-based platform designed to track and report on gender-related indicators across ECOWAS member states on Friday, September 7.
ECOGO will provide real-time data and analysis to inform policy decisions, promote gender equality, and empower women and girls in West Africa.
The platform marks a significant milestone in the partnership between USAID and ECOWAS, demonstrating their shared commitment to peace, stability, and gender equity in the region.
Speaking at the launch event, USAID/West Africa Acting Regional Mission Director Michelle Barrett emphasized the importance of the partnership, saying, “Today, we reaffirm our commitment to a West Africa where peace, stability, and gender equity are not just aspirations but realities for all its citizens.”
The event brought together distinguished leaders, including Prof. Fatou Sow Sarr, ECOWAS Commissioner for Human Development and Social Affairs, and Madame Sandra Oulate, Director of the ECOWAS Gender Development Center.
A training workshop is being held in conjunction with the launch to equip stakeholders with the skills needed to manage and utilize the ECOGO platform effectively.
ECOGO is a critical tool in the fight against gender inequality in West Africa. By delivering accurate and up-to-date data, ECOGO will enable member states and stakeholders to monitor progress, identify gaps, and implement targeted interventions to advance gender equality and empower women and girls.”
