ECOWAS to Meet In Ghana To Discuss Withdrawal Of Niger, Mali, Burkina Faso

The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has launched a two-day meeting in Accra, Ghana, starting Tuesday, to discuss the withdrawal of Niger, Mali, and Burkina Faso from the regional organization.

The gathering brings together representatives from ECOWAS member states to examine the details and consequences of the trio’s departure, which was officially announced in January. According to a statement from ECOWAS, the agenda includes assessing the impact on ECOWAS institutions and agencies operating within the three countries that are withdrawing.

Additionally, ECOWAS announced plans to establish a framework for engaging with Niger, Mali, and Burkina Faso regarding the terms and logistics of their exit.

“This session is focused on the withdrawal of Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger from the regional bloc,” the statement said.

“Key topics for discussion include the logistics of the withdrawal process and its impact on ECOWAS institutions and agencies active in the three countries. The meeting will also address other regional matters of importance.”

The high-level talks come three weeks after the three junta-led nations—now aligned under the Alliance of Sahel States (AES)—imposed a 0.5% import duty on goods from ECOWAS countries.

This levy, which excludes humanitarian aid, represents a significant departure from ECOWAS’s principle of free movement of goods and people among member states.

The new import duty is seen as a direct challenge to ECOWAS’s efforts to preserve economic relations with the AES nations, even after their formal exit.

This policy shift highlights the widening rift between the regional bloc and the Sahelian trio, raising concerns about the future of regional cooperation and integration.

Further developments from the Accra meeting are expected as discussions continue on Wednesday.