The Economic Community of West African States (Ecowas) has completed several workshops in collaboration with the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (Unctad) within the context of ongoing regional eTrade readiness.This is the first step towards developing an Ecowas e-commerce strategy.According to Kolawole Sofola, acting director of trade at Ecowas, member states acknowledge that e-commerce, and a sound framework for its development, could create a pathway for the use of technology to support economic diversification, sustainable growth and job creation.“The e-commerce strategy will help integrate and deepen trade within the region,” he said.Whilst Ecowas may still be at the beginning of its digital transition, the region is full of opportunities and has strong digital potential which, if developed correctly, can deliver real potential for increased trade.It is, however, essential that e-commerce ecosystems be strengthened not only in West Africa, but across the continent.
