The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has finalised the framework for a $75 million Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency Facility, aimed at driving clean energy solutions across the region.
Dr. Omar Touray, President of ECOWAS, made the announcement on Thursday during the 93rd Ordinary Session of the ECOWAS Council of Ministers in Abuja.
He explained that the facility will provide grants, loans, and guarantees through competitive calls for proposals, focusing on advancing renewable energy initiatives throughout West Africa.
“The Framework Document for the Establishment of an ECOWAS Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency Facility has been finalised by the Ministers,” Touray stated.
“This is a new blended finance facility with an initial amount of USD 75 million, whose objective is to provide grants, loans, and guarantees through regular demand-driven competitive calls for proposals, offering clean energy solutions for the ECOWAS region.”
The initiative marks a significant step towards ECOWAS’s broader goals of promoting sustainable energy solutions and tackling climate change. The facility is expected to play a key role in enhancing the region’s energy security while reducing dependence on non-renewable sources.
In addition to the renewable energy facility, Touray highlighted progress in other important regional projects. One such initiative is the “Rice Offensive,” a project launched by ECOWAS in 2014 aimed at achieving self-sufficiency in rice production by 2035. The project’s second cycle, which runs from 2025 to 2035, seeks to produce 33 million tonnes of milled rice to meet the region’s consumption needs. To achieve this, an estimated $15–$19 billion in investments is required to improve storage facilities, milling operations, and mechanisation of paddy production.
Touray also drew attention to the strategic importance of the Nigeria-Morocco Gas Pipeline, a major infrastructure project designed to enhance regional energy integration. The 6,800-kilometre pipeline, including 5,100 kilometres offshore, will transport 30 billion cubic feet of natural gas annually, connecting Nigeria to Morocco and extending the supply to ECOWAS member states, Mauritania, and Europe.
“This regional integrative project aims to build a gas pipeline linking Nigeria to Morocco, feeding ECOWAS member states and Mauritania, with future extensions to Europe,” Touray explained.
Furthermore, ECOWAS is making strides in regional integration projects, including the phased implementation of affordable roaming tariffs, now operational in six member states, and plans to harmonise aviation charges to reduce passenger and security fees by 25%.
Touray also highlighted efforts to improve the management of shared water resources and develop infrastructure in the water sector, all aimed at reducing poverty and safeguarding the environment.
Despite these advancements, challenges remain. Touray noted that by October 2024, only 40 percent of the Community Levy for the year had been received, which has hindered the implementation of ECOWAS programmes. He urged member states to fulfil their financial commitments to support regional development.
Security concerns, particularly terrorism, violent extremism, and organised crime, continue to be a significant focus for ECOWAS. Touray expressed hope that countries such as Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger, which have recently withdrawn from the organisation, would reconsider their decisions and rejoin the collective efforts to address regional security challenges.
In conclusion, Touray stressed the importance of unity and collaboration among member states, reiterating that the strength of ECOWAS lies in its collective action and shared commitment to advancing the region’s goals.
