The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) says artificial intelligence (AI) could become a major tool for economic growth and youth empowerment in West Africa if governments invest in digital education and innovation.<\/p>\n
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Speaking at the opening of the West African Youth Forum on AI in Togo, Damtien Larbli Tchintchibidja who is the Vice-President of the ECOWAS Commission said the region\u2019s youthful population remains one of its greatest untapped assets.<\/p>\n
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\u201cWest Africa is one of the youngest regions in the world, with nearly 65% of its population under the age of 25, yet this human capital has not fully been transformed into a driver of prosperity,\u201d she said.<\/p>\n
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Tchintchibidja was represented at the forum by ECOWAS Resident Representative in Togo, Deweh Emily Gray, who warned that unemployment, underemployment and the manipulation of young people remain major concerns across the region.<\/p>\n
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Gray said AI is already reshaping the global economy and warned that failing to adapt could deepen inequality in West Africa.<\/p>\n
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\u201cIf we remain inactive, this technology will only worsen existing inequalities. But if we take ownership of its development, it could become a powerful tool for inclusive progress,\u201d she said.<\/p>\n
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She urged governments in the region to treat digital skills and AI as national priorities alongside security, transport and energy infrastructure.<\/p>\n
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According to ECOWAS, AI could help improve sectors such as agriculture, healthcare, finance and the creative industry through better forecasting systems, medical diagnostics, digital financial services and new creative opportunities.<\/p>\n
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The forum forms part of activities marking ECOWAS\u2019s 50th anniversary and aims to encourage young West Africans to play an active role in shaping the continent\u2019s digital future.<\/p>\n
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Secretary General of Togo\u2019s Ministry of Youth and Sports, Agamo Kodzo said the gathering reflects a growing belief that African youth should not simply observe technological change but actively participate in building and applying it for the continent\u2019s development.<\/p>\n
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