The Long-Term Election Observation Mission (MOELT) of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has officially commenced its activities in the Republic of Côte d’Ivoire, ahead of the presidential election scheduled for 25 October 2025.
Among the international partners taking part in this important process is the International Human Rights Commission (IHRC Corporation), which plays a pivotal role in election observation, conflict prevention, and the promotion of democratic governance across the region.

A joint mission for peace and democracy

The official launch ceremony of the ECOWAS mission took place at the ECOWAS Representation Office in Abidjan under the chairmanship of H.E. Mrs. Fanta Cissé, Resident Representative of the ECOWAS Commission President.
In her opening remarks, Mrs. Cissé underlined the significance of the mission for Côte d’Ivoire’s democratic stability, stating:

“This mission is a milestone in consolidating democracy and stability in Côte d’Ivoire. Observers play a crucial role in ensuring the credibility of the electoral process and the preservation of social peace.”

Immediately after their arrival, the ECOWAS long-term observers began consultations with key national stakeholders to assess the political and institutional context ahead of the presidential vote.
Their meetings included representatives from the Independent Electoral Commission (CEI), WANEP–CI, CIED, Indigo Côte d’Ivoire, AFJCI, CPHDA, CRPA, and notably the National Coordination for the IHRC Country Programme in Côte d’Ivoire, linked to the ECOWAS member states.

Active role of IHRC within the ECOWAS mission

The participation of the International Human Rights Commission (IHRC Corporation) in the ECOWAS mission reaffirms the organisation’s growing importance in West Africa.
IHRC acts as a key partner supporting election monitoring, transparency, and institutional accountability.

Mr. Fofana Vamara, IHRC Country Representative for Côte d’Ivoire, Regional Coordinator and Commissioner (C-0013), serves as the Head of the Joint Observation Mission, facilitating coordination between ECOWAS and IHRC.
In his statement, he emphasised:

“The IHRC mission in Côte d’Ivoire is not limited to observing elections. It also aims to strengthen mechanisms for violence prevention and promote public trust. Our presence ensures transparency, accountability, and respect for human rights across the ECOWAS region.”

Observation, analysis and reporting

In the coming days, MOELT experts will expand their activities across various regions of Côte d’Ivoire to continue their field consultations and observations.
Their findings and analyses will contribute to the final report to be presented to the Head of the ECOWAS Electoral Observation Mission, which will be deployed from 19 October 2025.

This initiative exemplifies an effective inter-institutional cooperation framework combining the political expertise of ECOWAS with the humanitarian and human rights experience of IHRC.

Shared values – for Africa, peace and democracy

Through this mission, ECOWAS and IHRC reaffirm their shared commitment to supporting credible, transparent and peaceful elections, conducted in full respect of democratic principles, human rights, and good governance.
As a global non-profit organisation, IHRC continues to promote human dignity, intergovernmental dialogue, and the protection of fundamental rights, remaining a trusted partner of regional institutions and local communities.

Media Contacts (ECOWAS):

• Mr. Serigne Mamadou Ka – Head of Technical Team
  ska@ecowas.int | +234 808 888 2132
• Mr. Luther Barou – Head of Electoral Operations
  lbarou@ecowas.int | +234 909 483 3333

Media Contacts (IHRC – Côte d’Ivoire):

• Mr. Fofana Vamara – IHRC Country Representative, Regional Coordinator and Commissioner (C0013)
  f.vamara@smmihrc.org | infosnewsharp@gmail.com
  +225 07 09 11 10 39

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Society and Environment: The Preservation and Development of Wildlife and Flora, Combating Climate Change, Biodiversity, and Drought in Côte d’Ivoire and, in general, in West Africa within the ECOWAS region.

Joint French Mission in Paris – Soundélé Konan Foundation and the National Coordination for the Country Programme of the International Human Rights Commission IHRC Corporation for the Republic of Côte d’Ivoire, linked to ECOWAS countries, on the sidelines of the “International Conference on Agriculture” (SIA).

The Soundélé Konan Foundation, represented by its president, Adrienne Soundélé, participated in an international conference on agriculture and water on 5 March in Paris. This event, initiated by the Carrefour des Acteurs Sociaux et du Partenariat Eurafricain, took place in the prestigious setting of the French Academy of Agriculture, highlighting the importance of the topics discussed.

The conference brought together experts, policymakers, and representatives of non-governmental organisations to discuss the challenges posed by global warming, particularly its impacts on agriculture and water resource management. The participation of the Soundélé Konan Foundation in this event demonstrates its ongoing commitment to sustainable development and environmental conservation.

At the conclusion of the discussions, Laurent Dornon, head of the Agriculture Department at the Carrefour des Acteurs Sociaux et du Partenariat Eurafricain, expressed his gratitude to Ms Soundélé for the presence and contribution of the Foundation at the conference.

Furthermore, he emphasised the importance of continuing collaborations between their organisations to better address environmental challenges. “We are committed to raising awareness of climate change issues, the importance of agriculture, and respect for nature, as well as conveying key messages to better prepare for the future,” Mr Dornon stated in his official correspondence.

The conference provided an opportunity for participants to exchange ideas on innovative solutions for climate-resilient agriculture and more sustainable water resource management. The discussions also highlighted the necessity of strengthened cooperation between African and European countries to tackle these shared challenges.

The Soundélé Konan Foundation, known for its commitment to forest protection projects in Africa, continues to play a key role in promoting environmentally friendly agricultural practices and raising awareness about the impacts of climate change. Its participation in this conference in France marks a significant step in its international efforts and strengthens its position as a major player in the field of sustainable development.

Reported:
Fofana Vamara
IHRC Commisioner, IHRC Press Journalist

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A high-level working session between representatives of the International Human Rights Commission (IHRC) and the senior leadership of the African Development Bank (AfDB) was held at the bank’s headquarters in Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire, on 4 February 2025. The meeting aimed to conduct an annual review of the 2021–2030 reform agenda, programs, and community micro-projects under the IHRC National Programme for Côte d’Ivoire, affiliated with ECOWAS member states.

This initiative is part of IHRC’s technical framework, designed to monitor and evaluate the progress of reforms and projects supported by international development partners, including the African Development Bank and other multilateral execution agencies.

Strengthening Climate Action and Sustainable Development

Discussions focused on the African Development Bank’s priorities in the fields of climate adaptation and sustainable development, particularly through initiatives led by its Department for Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) and the Climate Action Window. A key highlight was the evaluation of reforms and strategies aimed at supporting environmental protection and climate resilience, both of which are essential for local communities and long-term economic stability.

As part of this engagement, official documentation was presented, and the Provisional Office of the Technical Unit of the National Coordination for the IHRC Country Programme was formally introduced. This unit will be responsible for supervising and evaluating reforms, programs, and community micro-projects, working in direct collaboration with the African Development Bank and its Climate Action Window within the African Development Fund (ADF).

Official Submission of the COP 29 Report

The session concluded with the official submission of a joint report, detailing the participation of IHRC representatives in the 29th Conference of the Parties (COP 29), which took place in Baku, Azerbaijan, in November 2024. This report outlines key outcomes and recommendations in the global fight against climate change and highlights the contributions of the IHRC delegation to international discussions.

Emphasising the Importance of International Cooperation

The meeting reaffirmed the importance of coordinated international action in accelerating the implementation of reforms and ensuring the effective oversight of social and environmental projects. Participants underscored the need for multilateral collaboration between international organisations, financial institutions, and local initiatives to support the sustainable and inclusive development of Côte d’Ivoire and the wider ECOWAS region.

Participants in the Session:

• Mr. Daouda Ouattara—Assistant to the Senior Vice President of the African Development Bank (AfDB).
• Mr. Fofana Vamara—Country Representative, Regional Coordinator, and Commissioner (IHRC-C 0013), as well as Climate Focal Point for the IHRC Country Programme in Côte d’Ivoire, affiliated with ECOWAS.
• Mr. Essouetchi Etchien Constantin—Technical Adviser for Climate Change Mitigation, delegated to the National Coordination of the IHRC Country Programme for Côte d’Ivoire.
• Mr. Cyrille Koffi—Member of the Soundélé Konan Foundation, dedicated to wildlife and forest conservation.

Conclusion

This high-level session marked a significant step towards building a cohesive and long-term strategy for environmental protection and socio-economic stability in Côte d’Ivoire. IHRC, in collaboration with the African Development Bank, remains committed to supporting climate resilience and sustainable development initiatives in close coordination with international partners and civil society organisations.

Article prepared by:
Fofana Vamara—IHRC Commisioner, IHRC Press Jurnalist

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This agreement aligns with commitments made by Côte d’Ivoire during international summits, including COP21, under the Paris Climate Agreement, where the country pledged to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and protect natural resources, essential for the long-term environmental stability of the region. It reflects a shared commitment to balancing economic development with environmental protection, especially as deforestation remains a significant threat to biodiversity and climate.

Adrienne Soundélé, President of the Soundélé Konan Foundation, described this collaboration as a crucial step in the fight for forest protection in Côte d’Ivoire. “This partnership demonstrates our commitment to building a brighter future, where forests reclaim their central place in our ecosystem and economy,” she stated.

Fofana Vamara, IHRC Resident Representative, highlighted the tangible benefits of this project, which receives substantial support from the Department for Climate Change Mitigation and Civil Society Organisations of the African Development Bank (AfDB), as well as potential multilateral international partners engaged in combating global warming and preserving biodiversity. “The goal is to support the people of Gagnoa, a key cocoa-producing region, in adopting sustainable agricultural practices that are forest and environmentally friendly,” he explained.

At the core of this initiative are two promising approaches: agroforestry and forestry. These techniques integrate trees into agricultural systems, allowing biodiversity preservation while improving yields and farmers’ incomes. For the Gagnoa region, the heart of cocoa cultivation, transitioning to more sustainable practices is essential.

Deforestation, primarily driven by extensive agriculture, has reduced Côte d’Ivoire’s forest cover by over 80% in the past 50 years. In response to this alarming situation, the government has committed to restoring 20% of its forests by 2030. The partnership between the Soundélé Konan Foundation and IHRC is part of a broader effort to realise these ambitious goals.

The signing of this agreement marks a turning point in the fight against deforestation in Côte d’Ivoire, opening new avenues for collaboration between the public sector, non-governmental organisations, and local communities in implementing effective forest conservation programs. It showcases the ability of local and international actors to work together in addressing complex challenges at the intersection of environmental, economic, and social issues.

As Côte d’Ivoire continues to play a central role in global cocoa production, this partnership could serve as a model for other countries facing similar challenges, particularly in West Africa, where deforestation driven by intensive agriculture poses a serious threat to ecosystems and local communities.

Attendees at the Meeting:

1. Adrienne Soundélé—President and General Director of the Soundélé Konan Foundation for the Protection and Development of Wildlife and Flora, recipient of the National Excellence Award 2015.
2. Fofana Vamara—Country Representative, Regional Coordinator, and IHRC Commissioner—Country Representative, Regional Coordinator, and IHRC Commissioner (C-0013) for the Country Programme of the International Human Rights Commission -IHRC in the Republic of Côte d’Ivoire, affiliated with ECOWAS countries.
3. Essouetchi Etchien Constantin—Technical Advisor for Climate Change Mitigation, delegated to the National Coordination for the Country Programme of the International Human Rights Commission IHRC for the Republic of Côte d’Ivoire, affiliated with ECOWAS countries.
4. Sylvain N’Guessan—Representative of the Soundélé Konan Foundation—Representative of the Soundélé Konan Foundation for the Protection and Development of Wildlife and Flora.
5. Cyrille Koffi—Member of the Soundélé Konan Foundation for the Protection and Development of Wildlife and Flora.
6. Assamoi Maxime—Member of the Soundélé Konan Foundation for the Protection and Development of Wildlife and Flora.

Issued in Abidjan, Plateau, 30 January 2025.

Article prepared by:
Fofana Vamara—IHRC Commisioner, IHRC Press Jurnalist
Sylvain N’Guessan—Representative of the Soundélé Konan Foundation

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It was an Interactive Session Organised by the ECOWAS Parliament in Partnership with the International Human Rights Commission (IHRC) in Nigeria.

In the presentation tagged, “Human Rights Situation in the West African Region”, he emphasized the human rights violations in Africa such as human trafficking, child labor, gender-based violence (GBV), and discrimination at all levels, including the lack of quality education and access to justice, etc.

He noted that international standards recognize access to justice as both a basic human right and a means to protect other universally recognized human rights.

“The International Human Rights Commission has been positively verified over the years by state and local authorities as well as organizations operating supranational as well as locally in over 100 countries around the world”.

Adding that the primary goal of the IHRC Group is to promote and implement the legislation, customs, and standards applicable to the full extent of HUMAN RIGHTS and all the resulting principles of local and international coexistence. Respect for these principles applies to everyone, everywhere in the world. And because one of the fundamental human rights is to live in peace, a key task for the IHRC Group is to work with national governments to seek and promote peace.

In his recommendation, he said:

1. That building institution-centered justice systems, combating crime and corruption, and defending human rights are crucial to nation-building.
2. Promoting the Rule of Law: engaging a highly consultative approach to the delivery of accountable framework, and policy, working with the justice sector and local stakeholders to develop programs that are responsive to African needs and interests should be prioritized by our African leaders.

Reported:
Fidelis Onakpoma
Head Media and Strategic Communications IHRC Nigeria

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