West African leaders unite to advance gender-inclusive climate action in Abidjan

Abidjan played host to a pivotal two-day regional workshop on gender equality and climate action, organized by the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS). The event, launched on May 15, 2026, brought together policymakers, gender experts, and technical partners to address the urgent challenges of green transition in West Africa.

Gender-sensitive climate strategies take center stage

The workshop, themed “Climate action and gender-responsive green transitions in West Africa”, was spearheaded by the ECOWAS Centre for Gender Development (ECGD) with support from UN Women. Its primary goal is to establish a unified regional framework that amplifies women’s participation in environmental policies and green economy initiatives.

Sandra Oulaté, Director of the ECGD, emphasized the critical need for inclusive approaches to tackle climate change in the subregion. She highlighted that women—particularly in rural and agricultural sectors—are disproportionately affected by environmental degradation and climate-related disasters.

Regional program aims to empower women in the green economy

By 2030, the proposed regional program seeks to enhance women’s access to green financing, sustainable employment, and economic opportunities tied to environmental governance. This initiative aligns with broader efforts to integrate gender perspectives into climate resilience strategies across West Africa.

Louis-Philippe Boni, representing Côte d’Ivoire’s Minister for African Integration, praised the country’s progress in gender and environmental policies, citing reforestation efforts, energy transition initiatives, and women’s representation in decision-making roles. He called for stronger collaboration among ECOWAS member states to expand women’s access to green financing mechanisms and climate action programs.

Rural women face disproportionate climate impacts

Dr. Namizata Binaté, representing Côte d’Ivoire’s Ministry of Women, Family, and Children, drew attention to the severe consequences of droughts, floods, and land degradation on rural women. She advocated for greater inclusion of women in climate policy decision-making processes to ensure their voices shape sustainable solutions.

The ECOWAS Commission echoed this sentiment. Dr. Kalilou Sylla, Commissioner for Economic Affairs and Agriculture, stressed that women play a vital role in West Africa’s agricultural economy yet face systemic barriers to productive resources and funding. He underscored gender equality as a cornerstone for building resilient economies capable of withstanding climate shocks.

Next steps: defining a roadmap for regional climate action

Participants concluded the workshop by outlining key priorities for the regional program, including funding mechanisms, operational frameworks, and a phased implementation strategy for the coming years. The outcomes aim to foster a more inclusive and sustainable approach to climate resilience in West Africa.