A peaceful, stable sub-region hinges on good governance and investing in youth – West African Bishops

Catholic Bishops from across West Africa have called for action to transform the sub-region into a hub of peace and unity on the continent. In a communique issued on May 11 at the close of the 5th Plenary Assembly of the Reunion of Episcopal Conferences of West Africa (RECOWA), the prelates declared that “by investing in youth, promoting virtuous governance structures, and strengthening regional integration, West Africa can become a model of stability and harmony on the continent.”

The week-long gathering, held in Dakar, Senegal, brought together Cardinals, Archbishops, and Bishops from across the subregion to reflect on the Church’s role in building a just and peaceful society. Their final communiqué—signed by Most Rev. Alexis Touabli Youlo, President of RECOWA, and Rev. Fr. Vitalis Anaehobi, Secretary General—offered both a moral roadmap and urgent appeal.

Highlighting the region’s growing insecurity and political fragmentation, the Bishops stressed that peace is only possible through justice, inclusion, and respect for the region’s ethnic, religious, and cultural diversity.

Drawing on the Synod’s Final Document, the Bishops also called for greater participation of women, young people, and the marginalized in all spheres of society. “It is a matter of fostering the empowerment of young people and women in the economic and social spheres, in order to strengthen their role in conflict prevention,” they stated.

To advance their vision of a peaceful and integrated West Africa, the Bishops outlined six key action points:

The Bishops outlined a six-point action plan to achieve a peaceful and integrated West Africa. They urged educators to incorporate civic education and peaceful conflict resolution into school curricula to foster a culture of peace from an early age.

They called for the creation of safe spaces to promote intercommunity dialogue among ethnic, religious, and social groups. They advocated for inclusive economic policies that invest in marginalized regions to reduce inequality and the risk of violence.

The Bishops also emphasized the need to reform the security sector by training forces in human rights and non-violent conflict management. In the fight against corruption and extremism, they urged governments to strengthen institutions and ensure transparency to curb impunity and organized crime.

Finally, they stressed the importance of strengthening regional cooperation by revitalizing ECOWAS and fostering deeper subregional unity to enable a more effective response to crises.

The Bishops also appealed to all people of goodwill to embrace the poor, migrants, and victims of terrorism, affirming the Gospel call to fraternity and solidarity.