The ECOWAS Gender Development Centre (EGDC), UN Women and the United Nations Office for West Africa and the Sahel (UNOWAS) held a regional seminar in Abuja aimed at strengthening the political leadership and participation of young women across West Africa and the Sahel.

Organised in partnership with the ECOWAS Support Project for Peace, Security and Governance (EPSG), which is backed by the European Union and Germany and implemented by GIZ, the event brought together members of the Network of Young Women Leaders in West Africa (ROAJELF) alongside gender and electoral specialists.

The programme included a three-day training course covering political engagement, leadership development, election processes, communication strategies and digital advocacy. This was followed by the 5th General Assembly of ROAJELF, during which the network renewed its leadership structures.

Participants also met with members of the ECOWAS Women Parliamentarians Association (ECOFEPA). Through discussions and mentoring activities, young delegates received guidance from experienced lawmakers and discussed the practical realities of holding political office.

During the event, participants presented the Declaration of the West African Network of Young Women Leaders, calling for “concrete actions to increase women’s representation and leadership at all levels of governance in the region.”

ECOFEPA reiterated its commitment to ongoing support for the network, highlighting plans for sustained mentorship to help prepare young women to assume leadership roles across public life.

Established in 2009 with the backing of the EGDC, ROAJELF serves as a regional platform for young women leaders. The network works on issues including reproductive health, education, peace and security, regional integration and migration, and aims to strengthen women’s participation in decision-making across West Africa.