ECOWAS strengthens social cohesion in Benin through project monitoring mission

The Economic Community of West African States has intensified efforts to strengthen social cohesion in Benin through a field monitoring mission under its regional development and stabilization agenda.

The mission forms part of the Regional Stabilization and Development Fund (FRSD) and is linked to the IMPACT-ECOWAS project, which focuses on improving access to basic social services in vulnerable communities.

A delegation from the ECOWAS Commission is currently in Cotonou, Benin, from May 6 to 15, 2026, to assess the progress of ongoing infrastructure and social intervention projects.

The initiative, known as “Improved Access to Basic Social Services for Strengthened Social Cohesion,” is being implemented in partnership with CARE Benin/Togo.

In a news release issued on Thursday, May 14, the regional bloc explained that the monitoring exercise is aimed at reviewing how effectively the projects are delivering essential services to communities in fragile and underserved areas.

It also seeks to determine the extent to which the interventions are contributing to peacebuilding and stability in regions facing social and developmental challenges.

Officials involved in the mission are expected to engage with local stakeholders and project implementers to evaluate impact and address implementation gaps.