A unique program has been launched by the United Nations High Commission for Refugees (UNHCR) and the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) to improve the welfare of refugees and internally displaced people in the West African region.
During the ambassadors’ retreat in Port Harcourt on Saturday, Fatou Sarr, the ECOWAS commissioner for human development and social affairs, officially launched the initiative.
Ms. Sarr emphasized the value of working together to safeguard and assist the region’s displaced and refugee population.
The retreat’s main goal is to handle the intricate humanitarian demands brought on by regional displacement. According to Ms. Sarr, “It aims to mobilize resources towards the protection and well-being of the affected populations and foster collaboration among stakeholders.” “In order to support the plight of persons of concern in member states, the commission has provided nine million dollars in 2024.”
Ms. Sarr emphasized the vital roles that partners played in the accomplishment of numerous programs designed to safeguard and maintain the welfare of displaced people.
The ambassador reaffirmed ECOWAS’s dedication to resolving the displacement crisis in the West African area.
The UNHCR regional bureau for Africa’s deputy director, Xavier Creache, thanked ECOWAS for its support and collaboration in meeting the needs of refugees, stateless people, and displaced populations.
“Despite the ongoing challenges brought about by instability and insecurity, we are grateful for the commitment and financial assistance offered by the ECOWAS commission,” Mr. Creache said. “More financial resources are desperately needed in order to meet the needs of the affected populations and communities.”
Musa Nuhu, the chair of the ECOWAS PRC and permanent representative of Nigeria to the organization, emphasized the need of regional political commitment and resolve in resolving the challenges encountered by refugees.
He emphasized that in order to safeguard human rights and address humanitarian issues, it is critical to integrate national and international legal frameworks.
“To ensure effective and durable solutions, PRC will continue its advocacy and sensitization campaigns in member states,” he pledged.
(NAN)
