ECOWAS, Ecobank conclude Pilot Program supporting Women Traders in West Africa

The ECOWAS Commission, through its Directorate of Trade, has wrapped up the pilot phase of the ECOWAS–Ecobank Empowerment Program for Women Traders, an initiative aimed at supporting women entrepreneurs across West Africa.

The program, which ran from November 2024 to April 2025, focused on building the capacity of women-led small and medium enterprises through mentorship and hands-on training in leadership, finance, trade facilitation, market access, and digital innovation.

According to officials, the initiative reflects ECOWAS’ commitment to mainstreaming gender in all regional policies and complements the bloc’s strategy for implementing the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), particularly in advancing the economic empowerment of women and young people.

The close-out ceremony held in Abuja showcased inspiring success stories from participants and emphasized the need to expand the program to reach more women traders across the region.