Young professionals across West Africa have been invited to apply for the 2026 ECOWAS Volunteers Programme (EVP), a regional initiative designed to empower youth while strengthening peace, economic cooperation, and sustainable development across member states.
The programme, coordinated by the ECOWAS Youth and Sports Development Centre (EYSDC), provides successful applicants with an opportunity to contribute their professional skills in critical development sectors while gaining international work experience, cross-cultural exposure, and leadership training. Volunteers will receive a monthly basic allowance of $412.50 (or its equivalent in local currency), alongside other benefits provided under the ECOWAS Volunteers’ Conditions of Service.
Beyond employment, the initiative represents a strategic investment in West Africa’s young workforce by creating opportunities for professionals to work directly with governments, institutions, and local communities on projects that improve people’s lives.
The programme reflects ECOWAS’ long-term vision of building an “ECOWAS of the People,” where citizens play a more active role in promoting regional integration, peace, and shared prosperity. By placing skilled volunteers in host countries, the initiative helps strengthen institutions, encourage knowledge exchange, and foster stronger ties among West African nations.
For many young professionals, the programme offers a rare opportunity to develop international experience without leaving the region. It also supports grassroots development by deploying volunteers to sectors that directly impact everyday life, including healthcare delivery, education, public communication, financial administration, programme coordination, and community services.
Officials say the programme is designed to harness the expertise and energy of young West Africans, enabling them to contribute to national development agendas while building valuable professional networks and practical experience that can boost future career prospects.
The initiative comes as ECOWAS continues efforts to deepen regional cooperation despite recent political changes, including the withdrawal of Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger from the regional bloc in 2025. The relocation of the EYSDC headquarters to Monrovia, Liberia, underscores the organisation’s commitment to sustaining youth-focused programmes across the remaining member states.
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