ECOWAS @ 50: Ambassador Miatta Lily French Applauds Women Peacekeepers, Urges Greater Regional Unity

Written by: Michaella Faith Wright

The ECOWAS Ambassador to The Gambia, Her Excellency Miatta Lily French, has called for stronger regional unity and collective action as the bloc marks its 50th anniversary, highlighting the critical role of women in peacekeeping.

The Golden Jubilee of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) was marked by a colourful parade and renewed calls for unity, resilience, and cooperation across West Africa.

Speaking at the event, Ambassador French described the milestone as a moment not only for celebration, but also for reflection and renewed commitment to regional integration.

“Today’s parade is a powerful symbol of our shared commitment to peace, unity, and cooperation,” she said, stressing the importance of collective efforts in maintaining stability across the region.

Established in 1975, ECOWAS has grown into a key driver of regional integration, promoting democratic governance, economic cooperation, and peacebuilding, despite ongoing challenges such as terrorism and transnational crime.

Ambassador French paid tribute to women in peacekeeping, describing their contributions as significant and transformative across both regional and international missions.

“West African women have made significant and transformative contributions to peacekeeping, from grassroots movements to global missions,” she said.

She noted that women are playing an increasingly important role in United Nations peacekeeping operations, with their numbers rising from just 20 in 1957 to more than 6,000 today. They serve in military, police, and civilian roles in missions across Mali and the Central African Republic.

According to her, female peacekeepers bring unique strengths, particularly in engaging with communities, preventing gender-based violence, and supporting survivors of abuse.

“Their presence improves civilian protection and strengthens intelligence gathering, making peacekeeping missions more effective,” she added.

She also emphasised that women contribute beyond security roles, playing key parts in legal systems, healthcare, logistics, and governance within peace operations.

Ambassador French concluded by calling for greater inclusion of women in the security sector, noting that their leadership continues to challenge stereotypes, advance gender equality, and strengthen peace and stability across West Africa.