At the well of Sierra Leone’s Parliament at Tower Hill, Hon. Veronica K. Sesay, a respected Member of the ECOWAS Parliament, delivered a compelling tribute to the achievements and enduring legacy of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS).

With clarity and conviction, she reaffirmed the organization’s importance as a foundation of progress for the region.

ECOWAS as a unifying force in West Africa, Hon. Sesay emphasized that the regional bloc has emerged as a powerful symbol of unity among West African nations. Through shared policies, regional dialogue, and cooperative frameworks, ECOWAS has built bridges across cultural, political, and linguistic divides. “Our strength lies in our unity,” she said, pointing to the steady integration of member states as proof of collective progress.

Defender of Democracy and Constitutional Order, she paid homage to ECOWAS’ strong record in defending democratic principles and upholding the rule of law. Recalling successful interventions in Liberia, Sierra Leone and The Gambia, Hon. Sesay described ECOWAS as a regional watchdog—ready to act in the face of political crises. “These interventions were not just military actions; they were affirmations of our commitment to democracy and justice,” she declared.

Champion of peace and security, according to Hon. Sesay, ECOWAS has played an instrumental role in maintaining peace and security across the sub-region. Its proactive stance in conflict prevention, peacekeeping, and post-conflict reconstruction has helped stabilize fragile states.

“Peace is the bedrock of development,” she noted, praising ECOWAS’s dedication to preventing violence and promoting reconciliation.

Advancing regional economic growth, Hon. Sesay highlighted the community’s successes in promoting trade liberalization and economic cooperation. By facilitating the free movement of goods, services, and people, ECOWAS has opened new avenues for commerce and entrepreneurship.

She noted that these policies have led to tangible economic benefits for millions and have sparked cross-border innovations that uplift communities.

Empowering citizens and improving lives, she further acknowledged the many ECOWAS programmes that target social development, education, women’s empowerment, and youth employment. Hon. Sesay praised these initiatives for their transformative impact, stating: “Development must be felt in the lives of ordinary citizens. ECOWAS understands this and continues to deliver through its social agenda.”

A call for continued commitment and solidarity, in her closing remarks, Hon. Veronica K. Sesay urged member states to remain steadfast in supporting ECOWAS’ mission. She called for increased political will, investment, and cooperation to ensure the region continues on its upward trajectory. “Let us stand by this noble institution and let it continue to be a source of strength, hope, and progress for generations to come,” she concluded.

Hon. Veronica K. Sesay: Voice of leadership, vision of unity, her speech not only celebrated past achievements but also laid out a hopeful vision for the future of West Africa—one anchored on solidarity, stability, and sustainable development under the guiding hand of ECOWAS.