By Omonu YG Nelson
Conakry, Guinea – September 3, 2024
The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) Parliament has convened in Guinea for a delocalised meeting aimed at promoting education and health services in West Africa.
The meeting is with the Theme: “Promoting Healthcare Services and Education in West Africa: The Role of ECOWAS Parliament”
The five-day meeting, which runs from September 3 to 7, brings together members of the ECOWAS Parliament Committee on Health, Education etc, and other stakeholders to discuss ways to address the education and health challenges facing the region.
In a welcome address, Hon. Fanta Conté, Head of the Guinean delegation, expressed gratitude to the ECOWAS authorities for choosing Guinea to host the meeting, which she said was an honor and privilege. “The choice of Guinea to host this important meeting during this crucial period in our history honors us in many respects,” Conté said.
She highlighted the significance of the meeting, particularly in the context of the recent Ebola, COVID-19, and monkeypox outbreaks that have affected Guinea. “This meeting is of the utmost importance for the Guinean population, which has been severely affected in the recent past by these diseases,” she said.
The ECOWAS Parliament is currently in its 6th legislature, and for the first time in its history, it is chaired by a woman of proven leadership, Honorable Mèmounatou Ibrahima. Conté praised this milestone, saying, “This is a first in the history of this institution, and I would like to take this opportunity to thank all the ECOWAS authorities for this bold step.”
Conté also thanked the Guinean authorities, particularly President Dr. Dansa Kourouma, for their support and facilities made available for the meeting. “I would like to express my gratitude to the Chairman of the National Transition Council, our beloved President, Dr. Dansa Kourouma, for the facilities made available for this meeting,” she said.
The meeting will focus on the role of the ECOWAS Parliament in promoting education and health services in West Africa, including discussions on how to strengthen healthcare systems, improve access to education, and address the social and economic impacts of the recent health crises.
Conté expressed hope for a successful meeting, saying, “I wish this meeting every success. Thank you very much.”