Guinea Hosts Colourful Cultural Night To Mark ECOWAS At 50
The Republic of Guinea came alive on 4th June 2025 as it hosted a vibrant cultural and gastronomic evening in Conakry to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS).
Organised by the Office of the ECOWAS Resident Representative in partnership with Guinean authorities and ambassadors from member states, the event paid tribute to the founding of ECOWAS on 28th May 1975 in Lagos, Nigeria.
Held under the patronage of Guinea’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Dr Morissanda Kouyaté, the evening brought together top regional figures, including H.E. Mr Louis Blaise Aka-Brou, ECOWAS Resident Representative, and Mr Leonardo Santos Simão, Special Representative of the UN Secretary-General for West Africa and the Sahel.
Speakers reflected on ECOWAS’ strides in regional integration, free movement of people, and peacekeeping, while also calling for institutional reforms to strengthen its impact in a changing world.
The night ended on a high note with cultural performances, the sharing of traditional West African dishes, and the symbolic cutting of an anniversary cake – a sweet reminder of five decades of regional unity and shared identity.
The celebration blended reflection and festivity, honouring the journey so far while inspiring hope for a more integrated and resilient West Africa.
