AFRICA ( commonwealth Union ) _ A meeting to raise awareness about the implementation of a multi-country (Schengen-type) single visa system (ECOVISA) for immigrants of third country extraction has just ended, organized by the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) Commission through the Directorate of Free Movement of Persons and Migration. The ECOWAS Commission had the chance to update stakeholders on the efforts taken to implement the ECOVISA Regime during the sensitization meeting that was held virtually on March 22, 2023.
The ECOWAS Commission also shared recommendations from the last Experts Meeting, which was held in October 2022. These comments were made in particular with regard to the cost, design, and processing of the ECOVISA. In her introductory remarks, the ECOWAS Commissioner for Economic Affairs and Agriculture, Mrs. Massandjé TOURE-LITSE, noted that one of the crucial steps in maintaining the free movement of people and products was the creation of a Schengen-style single visa system for the ECOWAS area.
Moreover, she stated that the ECOVISA, a priority for the Authority of Heads of State and Government, will make it easier for foreign visitors, tourists, and investors to enter and move throughout the ECOWAS Community.
The Commissioner emphasized that the implementation of ECOVISA will strengthen the region’s tourism push and encourage economic activity. As a result, she asked all participants to take ownership of the process, which will have a beneficial impact on the area.
The Chairperson of the Meeting, Mrs. Cristina da Silva Pedreira, Head of the ECOWAS National Office in Guinea-Bissau, emphasized the significance of the Meeting as a follow-up to the ECOVISA Experts Meeting held in Abuja in October 2022.
Participants included stakeholders from the West African Civil Society Forum (WACSOF), the Federation of the West African Chambers of Commerce and Industry, the ECOWAS National Offices, the tourism industry, and the private sector. (FEWACCI).
