Government To Launch “ECOWAS For All” Campaign to Deepen Public Awareness

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs, in collaboration with the ECOWAS National Office, will on Thursday, October 1, 2026, launch a public sensitisation campaign to improve Ghanaians’ understanding of ECOWAS policies, programmes and opportunities.

A release issued by the Ministry on Tuesday in Accra said the initiative seeks to bridge information gaps among Ghanaian citizens, particularly traders, transport operators, entrepreneurs, students, youth groups and communities in border areas, on the rights and opportunities available under ECOWAS protocols.

It said the campaign will focus on the ECOWAS Protocol on Free Movement of Persons, Right of Residence and Establishment, as well as the ECOWAS Trade Liberalisation Scheme (ETLS).

According to the release, the campaign will also provide platforms for citizens to engage relevant institutions on issues concerning cross-border movement, trade, customs procedures and other regional integration matters.

It said the launch, which will be held at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, will bring together representatives of the ECOWAS Resident Mission in Ghana, Ghana Immigration Service, Customs Division of the Ghana Revenue Authority, Ghana Union of Traders Associations, academia, civil society organisations, the media and other stakeholders.

It noted that the Foreign Affairs Minister, Mr Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, is expected to deliver the keynote address.

“As part of activities from October to December 2026, the campaign will include sensitisation exercises at Makola and Madina markets, engagements with communities at the Aflao and Elubo border posts, media activities and sensitisation workshops for second cycle and tertiary students,” it stated.

The Ministry said the campaign would strengthen collaboration among ECOWAS institutions, government agencies and local communities while improving citizens’ understanding of ECOWAS programmes and the practical benefits of regional integration.

The Ministry has therefore invited the media and relevant stakeholders to participate in the launch and subsequent activities of the “ECOWAS for All” campaign.

The campaign is themed “Bringing ECOWAS Closer to the Citizens: Promoting Awareness, Participation and Opportunities for Regional Integration.”

Joyce Adwoa Animia Ocran, ISD