The Economic Community of West African States (Ecowas) and TradeMark Africa (TMA) have inked a strategic collaboration agreement geared towards improving trade facilitation, opening transportation corridors, and promoting economic integration within West Africa. The collaborative agreement aims to enhance the use of digital technologies to improve trade efficiency, reduce trade barriers at border crossings, and foster a conducive environment for business operations throughout the region.TradeMark Africa will bring experience from the eastern, southern, and Horn of Africa regions, and aims to expand support to enhance trade corridor infrastructure and connectivity, improve compliance of traded goods to international quality standards, as well as strengthen structures to empower women and youth in trade. The two organisations will also develop and implement climate resilience and mitigation strategies to promote more environmentally friendly and sustainable trading practices.According to Dr Omar Alieu Touray, president of the Ecowas Commission, the partnership is a strategic step towards achieving the economic integration goals of Ecowas. “By leveraging TMA’s expertise in trade logistics and capacity building, we can address pressing challenges at our borders and improve the transit environment. This partnership sets a robust framework for prosperity that will benefit all member states and strengthen the business landscape in West Africa.”Ambassador Erastus Mwencha, TradeMark Africa Board chairman, said the agreement was a significant milestone for TMA which is keen to expand its trade facilitation efforts to West Africa, with an emphasis on the Abidjan-Lagos corridor and interlocking routes.
