Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) and Guinea are working together to fight gender-based violence (GBV) and sexual harassment. From August 20 to 23, 2025, a workshop in Conakry trained participants on ECOWAS tools to prevent and respond to these issues in workplaces and schools (read more here).
The training brought together people from different ministries, health workers, judges, police officers, youth groups, teachers, and civil society organizations focused on protecting women and vulnerable people. The goal was to build skills and encourage teamwork based on regional plans started in 2021.
Ambassador Elhadj Ibrahim Diallo, head of the ECOWAS National Office, said GBV is still a widespread problem that mostly affects women and girls. He added that it harms not only individuals but also the economy and peace in communities.
Ambassador Louis-Blaise AKA-BROU, ECOWAS representative in Guinea, praised the government’s strong efforts against GBV and harassment. He called on everyone to work together to fight gender inequality and protect women and girls from violence.
General Roger Yassy Klönon from Guinea’s Ministry for Women, Children, and Vulnerable Persons welcomed the training. He said it came at the right time, given recent violence, and will help those involved get better at preventing and responding to these problems.
This training is part of ECOWAS’s plan to stop violence against women and girls and make workplaces and schools safer across the region.
