The ECOWAS Parliament has joined the international community in commemorating International Women’s Day 2026, reaffirming its commitment to building a region where every woman and girl can realise her full potential and contribute meaningfully to the development of West Africa.
The day is celebrated on the 8th March, under the United Nations, with the theme “Rights. Justice. Action. For ALL Women and Girls” and the global campaign theme “Give to Gain.”
In a statement, the Speaker of the ECOWAS Parliament, Memounatou Ibrahima, said: “This year’s theme calls for renewed commitment to protecting the rights of women and girls, ensuring justice, and taking meaningful action to advance gender equality.
She noted that: “Across the ECOWAS region, women continue to play vital roles in governance, economic development, peacebuilding, and community leadership. Their contributions remain indispensable to the progress and stability of our Community”, she noted
The Speaker of the Parliament further added that: “the campaign theme ‘Give to Gain’ reminds us that investing in women and girls yields lasting benefits for families, communities, and nations. When women are empowered with equal opportunities, education, and representation in decision-making, societies become stronger and more inclusive”, she added.
The ECOWAS Parliament restated its dedication to promoting policies and initiatives that advance women’s empowerment, gender equality, and inclusive governance across our Member States.