The Ministry of Planning and Economic Development (MoPED), in collaboration with the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), hosted a media engagement session in Freetown to commemorate ECOWAS' 50th anniversary under the theme: 'Stronger Together for a Brighter Future.'

Ambrose James, Development Secretary at MoPED, chaired the meeting and called on journalists to help spread the message of the milestone celebration, emphasizing its importance to Sierra Leone and the wider West African region.

ECOWAS Ambassador to Sierra Leone, John Azuma, highlighted the people-centered focus of the Commission.

He said the engagement was part of efforts to listen to citizens' challenges and find sustainable solutions.

'I'm pleased to meet with journalists again as we mark ECOWAS' 50th anniversary. Sierra Leone and ECOWAS have had a long-standing, supportive relationship,' he noted.

Ambassador Azuma reassured Minister of Planning Kenyeh Barlay of his commitment to working closely with the government to make ECOWAS more visible in Sierra Leone.

'ECOWAS is for the people. We will do all we can to strengthen the partnership and support Sierra Leone's development,' he said.

Minister Barlay stated that the conference aimed to inform the public about the anniversary and its significance. She revealed that activities including a float parade through Freetown will be held to celebrate.