ECOFEPA Encourages West African Women to Embrace Trade

During an Executive Masterclass titled “Advancing Women’s Participation in Global Trade for Political Readiness and Export Opportunities in ECOWAS Region” held in Accra, Ghana, the Female Parliamentarians’ Association of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOFEPA) urged West African businesswomen to leverage technology and skills for business growth and market access. ECOFEPA President Shantal Fanny, represented by First Vice-President Zainab Gimba, highlighted the need for women to transition from mere participation in economic activities to becoming key drivers of trade and innovation.

Fanny pointed out the significant barriers women face, including limited access to finance and technology, which hinder their ability to formalize and compete in markets. Ghana’s Minister for Gender, Children and Social Protection, Dr. Agnes Lartey, acknowledged women's contributions to economic development but noted that many remain in the informal economy.

She emphasized the importance of leveraging trade frameworks for business expansion and cited the National Gender Policy 2025–2034 as a tool for promoting gender-responsive development.