The ECOWAS Regional Agency for Agriculture and Food (RAAF) received the new ECOWAS Commissioner for Economic Affairs and Agriculture, Dr Kalilou Sylla, for the first time since he took office. During the working visit, which focused on listening and dialogue, in-depth discussions were held with all RAAF staff members, providing an opportunity to present the Agency's mandate, organogram and ongoing projects, as well as its main challenges and prospects in the short and medium term.

Speaking on behalf of all RAAF staff, the Acting Executive Director, Mr. Kanfitin Konlani, congratulated Dr Kalilou Sylla on his recent appointment as Commissioner. He recalled Dr Sylla's decisive role between 2007 and 2012 in helping to formulate the instruments for implementing the regional agricultural policy (ECOWAP).

Referring to the agricultural sector, Commissioner Kalilou painted an uncompromising picture of the challenges facing West Africa, highlighting persistent food insecurity, demographic pressure, conflicts and population displacement, climate change and the gradual decline in funding for development. Going forward, he called for a paradigm shift to make agriculture more attractive, more profitable and in line with the aspirations of various stakeholders, especially young people. He also stressed the need to strengthen the regional common market, anticipate crises and explore innovative mechanisms for financing agriculture.

Following the presentation of the Agency's activities in the field, Commissioner Kalilou praised the high-quality work accomplished by RAAF, while inviting it to take a new step forward. He envisaged greater institutional and operational independence of the Agency, which he described as a ‘five-star vision, meaning a targeted review of the organizational chart focusing on strategic positions related to leadership, innovation and resource mobilization. Discussions also focused on the importance of structured and regular dialogue with Member States, regional organizations, the private sector and other ecosystems, calling for better coordination with the Commission's sectoral departments, notably the Directorate of Agriculture and Rural Development.

Regional integration and cross-border agricultural trade were also prominent topics of discussion. Commissioner noted the persistence of obstacles related to tariff and non-tariff barriers, as well as certification requirements, and invited RAAF to propose concrete solutions to facilitate the movement of agricultural products within the Community.

Commissioner Kalilou urged RAAF to further assert its added value to Member States by demonstrating more clearly what it brings to countries and populations.