The ECOWAS Bank for Investment and Development (EBID) hosted the official media launch of the 2027 ECOWAS Investment Forum (EIF 2027) in Lomé, Togo, on 29 September 2026, ahead of the Forum scheduled for 7–8 April 2027.
The event brought together government officials, development finance institutions, regional partners, investors, private-sector leaders, diplomats, and media representatives.
Under the theme “Resilience and Transformation: Navigating Global Uncertainties and Unlocking Inclusive Growth in the West African Sub-region,” the launch presented the Forum’s objectives and strategic priorities.
In his opening remarks, Dr George Agyekum Donkor, President and Chairman of the Board of Directors of EBID, underscored the importance of investment in unlocking the region’s potential. He described EIF 2027 as a platform to mobilise capital, strengthen partnerships, and accelerate structural transformation through sustainable and inclusive investments.
Speaking on behalf of the Government of Togo, Host Country and Official Partner for the event, Mrs Akou Mawussé Adétou Afidenyigba, Chief of Staff representing Honourable Georges Barcola, Minister for Finance and Budget of the Togolese Republic, stressed the need to turn global challenges into opportunities for regional investment. She noted that the success of EIF 2027 would be measured by the investments mobilised, the projects implemented, and the jobs created.
The launch featured a presentation of EIF 2027 and a high-level panel on investment opportunities and financing solutions for sustainable growth. Representatives from BARTON HEYMAN LIMITED, the African Trade Chamber and the National Agency for the Promotion and Guarantee of SME Financing (ANPGF) of Togo highlighted innovative financing and private sector participation.
In his closing address, Honourable Ismael Nabe, Minister for Planning, Development and International Cooperation of the Republic of Guinea and current Chairman of the EBID Board of Governors, officially launched EIF 2027 and called for stronger collaboration among governments, investors, development partners, and the private sector. He emphasised West Africa’s resources, human capital, and opportunities to emerge as a major economic hub, urging EIF 2027 to catalyse strategic investment, innovation, and partnerships.
The launch marks the beginning of preparations for EIF 2027, which will connect project sponsors, investors, development finance institutions, policymakers, and business leaders around opportunities in strategic sectors. The Forum is expected to strengthen investment flows, foster public-private partnerships, and support West Africa’s economic transformation agenda.
