The Deputy Foreign Affairs and Regional Integration Minister, Kwaku Ampratwum Sarpong has expressed worry about rising acts of insurgency in West Africa. 

He said the occurrence of coups which hinder peace, stability and economic development of the sub-region must be tackled head-on. 

He therefore urged stakeholders of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) to map out strategies targeted at finding solutions to the coups. 

He was speaking at a sensitization workshop on ECOWAS Protocols in the Volta Regional capital, Ho. 

“In this two-day workshop, we hope to explore issues related to conflict development, the recent upsurge of coup d’états and its impact on the sub-region, as well as the role ECOWAS plays in conflict management, reconstruction and peacebuilding in West Africa.

“Being fully aware that economic development cannot be achieved in the absence of peace and stability, conflict in our backyard should concern us and motivate us not only to find solutions but also, to prevent its spread.”

He bemoaned the fact that leaders of some ECOWAS member states have created artificial barriers, thus curtailing the success of the regional integration objective. 

The Volta Regional Minister, Dr. Archibald Yao Letsa, underscored efforts made by ECOWAS towards achieving its objectives.

He entreated ECOWAS member states to adhere to the Protocols and Conventions of the Community. 

“There is also the need for citizens of each member state of ECOWAS to have adequate knowledge and understanding of the Protocols and Conventions to enable the citizens effectively contribute to and benefit from the regional integration process”, he added. 

The ECOWAS sensitization workshop brought together key stakeholders, civil society organizations, public servants, media personnel and students.

The workshop was aimed to enlighten participants on the operations, protocols and objectives of ECOWAS.