The United States Agency for International Development (USAID) and the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) have partnered to establish the ECOWAS Gender Observatory (ECOGO).

The platform is intended to give gender focal points in ministries and Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) of member states the necessary skills to handle data and capitalize on advancements in women’s empowerment and gender equality.

The platform would offer a long-term sustainable solution to the collection and management of data difficulties, according to Prudence Ngwenya, Director of Women, Gender and Youth Directorate at the African Union Commission, who made this observation at a ceremony in Accra.

According to her, the platform would serve as both a dynamic data repository and a tool for the Commission to gather, evaluate, and distribute gender-disaggregated data throughout the region. This would support the Commission’s decision-making process with data-driven insights into gender-related issues.

“By strengthening evidence-based decision-making for policymakers at regional and national levels, the observatories will offer crucial insights into gender inequality in different sectors, including education, health, economic engagement, and political representation. We can create tailored initiatives that meet the unique needs of women, young people, and marginalized groups by utilizing this data, making sure that no one is left behind,” she added.

Director of the UNDP’s Regional Service Center for Africa, Dr. Mathias Naab, emphasized that the establishment and opening of the ECOWAS Gender Observatory represents a “crucial and timely” endeavor that will enable the region to fearlessly face challenges and closely monitor Member States’ adherence to their commitments regarding gender equality and women’s empowerment.

He added that the project “strongly aligns,” with both the agency’s Renewed Strategic Offer for Africa (2022–2025) and its Gender Equality Strategy.

Speaking at the training ceremony, Head of the Department of Gender at the Ministry of Gender, Children, and Social Protection, Faustina Acheampong said that the workshop was effectively because it brought together key stakeholders and decision makers from ECOWAS member states to acquire the knowledge that is necessary to further strengthen women’s empowerment and gender equality.

BY: APPIANIMAA MERCY