New York, 16th March, 2026 – At a high‑level side event during the 70th Session of the Commission on the Status of Women (CSW), the Chair of the ECOWAS Ministers of Gender urged West African governments to dismantle financial obstacles that continue to hinder women’s participation in politics.
Speaking under the theme “Breaking the Financial Barriers – Addressing Women’s Political Leadership in West Africa,” the minister emphasized that while women remain the backbone of communities and economies, the prohibitive cost of political engagement, limited access to campaign financing, and entrenched cultural biases are restricting their representation in leadership.
She argued that gender‑balanced governance is not only a matter of fairness but also vital for strengthening democracy, promoting inclusive development, and ensuring regional stability. Several ECOWAS countries are already working toward achieving a minimum 30 percent representation of women in governance structures.
Highlighting Sierra Leone’s progress, the minister referenced the landmark Gender Equality and Women’s Empowerment Act of 2022, which enhances women’s access to finance and promotes their participation in decision‑making.
The minister called on ECOWAS member states to adopt gender‑sensitive political financing systems, reform discriminatory laws, and challenge cultural narratives that discourage women from seeking leadership roles. She further urged governments, civil society, the private sector, and international partners to collaborate in creating an enabling environment where women can lead without financial constraints.
Her message was clear: empowering women in politics strengthens democracy, accelerates development, and secures a more inclusive future for West Africa.
