The University of Massachussetts-Boston recently hosted its 6th Africa Day conference, with the theme of “Democratic Backsliding in West Africa: Contradictions, Challenges, and Difference.” The keynote speaker for the event was Ambassador Kinza Jawara-Njai, the ECOWAS Permanent Observer to the United Nations.
Ambassador Jawara-Njai’s address focused on the topic of “Why West African Democracy is on the Right Path despite Challenges.” She highlighted the efforts of ECOWAS in promoting democracy, good governance, and development in the region, despite recent setbacks such as coup d’etats and unconstitutional changes of government.
The ambassador acknowledged the challenges faced by some ECOWAS member states but also pointed out the successes in countries like Ghana, Gambia, Nigeria, and Senegal, where free, fair, and credible elections have taken place. She emphasized the importance of strong institutions and the will of citizens in maintaining a democratic culture in West Africa.
The conference also featured research papers on democracy and development in West Africa, presented by distinguished scholars. Other keynote speakers included Ms. Oge Onubogu from the Woodrow Wilson International Center and Mr. Gilles O. Yabi, Founder and CEO of WATHI in Senegal.
In recognition of ECOWAS’ support and contribution to the event, the University of Massachussetts-Boston named its 2024 Africa Scholars Forum Democracy Award in honor of ECOWAS and the African Union. Additionally, two final year doctoral candidates in the Global Governance and Human Security Program were presented with “The 2024 Africa Scholars Forum ECOWAS-Africa Union Democracy Students Award” to support their research on democracy, human rights, and justice in Africa.
Overall, the conference provided an opportunity for ECOWAS to showcase its efforts in promoting democracy in West Africa and highlighted the positive strides being made towards democratic consolidation in the region.