In a significant move to address the biodiversity crisis in West Africa, the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) is actively planning its regional contribution to the Global 30 by 30 Initiative.
The announcement was made by the Minister of State for Environment, Dr. Iziaq Salako during the ECOWAS coordination meeting held in Abuja. The meeting aimed to strategise the region’s efforts in protecting the planet’s biodiversity and translating ambitious goals into actionable steps.
Salako emphasised the ecological importance of the ECOWAS region, one of the most biodiverse areas on the planet. All ECOWAS countries are part of the High Ambition Coalition for Nature and People, advocating for expanding protected areas to at least 30 per cent of the planet by 2030. This commitment, enshrined in Target 3 of the Global Biodiversity Framework, is crucial for addressing the escalating biodiversity crisis.
Highlighting recent milestones, Salako recalled the ECOWAS Coordination Meeting held just three months ago, focusing on the prompt ratification of the BBNJ Treaty. The treaty aims to adopt measures for the comprehensive protection of 30 per cent of the world’s oceans. He also referenced the adoption of targeted guidance on the implementation of 30 by 30 in October 2022.
Salako stressed that West Africa faces significant challenges due to a lack of solutions, posing threats to communities, food security, and the displacement of rural populations. The urgency of producing a regional 30 by 30 implementation plan to protect at least 30 per cent of the ECOWAS region was underscored, emphasising the need to preserve ecosystems and halt human-induced species extinction.
The unique approach of the ECOWAS region in considering its contribution to halting biodiversity loss through a regional lens was highlighted. Salako emphasised the critical role this template plays in achieving global success and ensuring nature’s preservation for future generations. A healthier regional biodiversity, he stated, enhances resilience to climate and biodiversity shocks, ensuring continued benefits for the population.
Expressing confidence in ECOWAS’s leadership, Salako declared the region’s commitment to biodiversity, challenging the international community to be more ambitious in response. He called for global attention to the actions taken by ECOWAS, showcasing the region’s commitment and urging greater financial support to collectively and individually realise the 30 by 30 vision.
Over half of the global GDP relies on rich biodiversity and healthy ecosystems, Salako noted. He emphasised that investing in biodiversity conservation and the 30 by 30 agenda is a long-term investment in the economies of ECOWAS countries and the world. The minister stressed the importance of securing the livelihoods of indigenous peoples and local communities, the primary guardians of the region’s rich biodiversity.
A representative from ECOWAS, Benard Koffi, assured that the region is committed to protecting 30 per cent of its ecosystem. The goal is not only for immediate benefits but also to secure long-term advantages for future generations. The shared responsibility to act by expanding and strengthening protected areas was emphasised, as degraded ecosystems threaten the security and well-being of local communities and multinational businesses alike.
Salako urged the international community to witness and support ECOWAS’s efforts, reinforcing the call for an ambitious and urgent global response to the biodiversity crisis. He envisioned a united world responding collectively to safeguard the environment and secure a sustainable future.
