In development for regional peacekeeping efforts, Sierra Leone is set to host the eagerly anticipated ECOWAS stabilisation force headquarters starting January 2024.

This revelation comes directly from the country’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Timothy Kabbah, who emphasized that the force, situated at the former Lungi International Airport, will function as a stabilisation and peacekeeping entity, distinct from an intervention force.

The primary objective of this initiative is to foster and sustain democracy within the region, with a parallel mission already established in The Gambia and Guinea Bissau by ECOWAS. Sierra Leone will now serve as the central hub for the ECOWAS peacekeeping force, coordinating regional efforts to address conflicts and promote stability.

Unlike an intervention force, the ECOWAS stabilisation force will not impede the autonomy of individual military forces in member countries. Instead, it will collaborate with national forces, operating in synergy to uphold democracy. This strategic move has been in the works since the aftermath of the civil wars in Liberia and Sierra Leone, and its official implementation in January 2024 is expected to play a crucial role in curbing the surge of coups and insecurity across the ECOWAS region.

President Bola Tinubu, the current ECOWAS chairman, expressed optimism about the positive impact of the stabilisation force. During the 64th ECOWAS summit held in Abuja, he highlighted the potential for improved governance and leadership, foreseeing a reduction in the prevalence of coups and enhanced security within the region.

The selection of Sierra Leone as the headquarters reflects the country’s commitment to regional stability and peace. The old Lungi International Airport, now repurposed, will house the force’s operations, symbolizing a strategic location for efficient coordination.

As the stabilisation force gears up to become fully operational, it is anticipated that its presence will serve as a deterrent to potential threats, contributing to a more secure and democratic West African region. The collaboration between ECOWAS and individual member states is poised to strengthen, with each nation maintaining its military independence while collectively working towards the shared goal of regional peacekeeping.

The official launch of the ECOWAS stabilisation force headquarters in Sierra Leone marks a milestone in the organization’s efforts to address conflict and promote democratic values. The coming together of nations in a cooperative framework is expected to set a precedent for effective regional peacekeeping initiatives in West Africa, offering hope for a more stable and secure future.