USAID and ECOWAS Collaborate to Launch the ECOWAS Gender Observatory (ECOGO)

The United States Agency for International Development (USAID), in partnership with the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) under the Strengthening Regional Peace and Stability in West Africa Program (SPS), officially launched the ECOWAS Gender Observatory (ECOGO) today. ECOGO is a state-of-the-art web-based platform designed to systematically track, evaluate, and report on gender-related indicators across ECOWAS member states. The platform will serve as an essential tool for gathering, analyzing, and disseminating real-time gender data, enabling decision-makers to develop and implement policies that promote gender equality and empower women and girls across the region. This groundbreaking initiative highlights the deep and enduring collaboration between USAID and ECOWAS, underscored by a mutual commitment to fostering peace, stability, and gender equity in West Africa. The ECOGO platform will provide a comprehensive database on the status of gender equality while also serving as a hub for sharing best practices and enhancing cooperation among governments, civil society organizations, and international partners. Speaking at the launch event, USAID/West Africa Acting Regional Mission Director Michelle Barrett stated, "The partnership between USAID and ECOWAS is founded on shared values and a unified vision: a West Africa where peace, stability, and gender equity are not just aspirations but realities for all its citizens." She continued, "Today, as we inaugurate ECOGO, we reaffirm our commitment to this vision and to the principles that guide our collaboration." The event was graced by several distinguished leaders, including Michelle Barrett, Acting Regional Mission Director of USAID/West Africa; Prof. Fatou Sow Sarr, ECOWAS Commissioner for Human Development and Social Affairs; and Madame Sandra Oulate, Director of the ECOWAS Gender Development Center. Heads of government institutions and representatives from various bilateral and multilateral organizations were also in attendance. In conjunction with the launch, a training workshop is being held to equip key stakeholders with the skills needed to effectively manage and utilize the ECOGO platform, ensuring its successful deployment and impact across the region. The ECOWAS Gender Observatory marks a significant step forward in tackling gender inequality in West Africa. By delivering accurate, up-to-date data, ECOGO will enable member states and stakeholders to monitor progress, identify gaps, and implement targeted interventions that advance gender equality and empower women and girls. USAID is proud to support this innovative initiative and remains steadfast in its commitment to working alongside ECOWAS and other partners to build a more peaceful, stable, and equitable West Africa.