Thrilled, that is the best way to describe how we feel about a new project for the WACOMP. For this prestigious project, we’re going to work with UNIDO and ITC on developing two ‘Meet the buyers’ events and everything that comes with this.

When we say prestigious, we mean really prestigious. To put this in perspective: the project covers three value chains (cassava and its derivatives, textiles and garments, and mango) in numerous countries in Africa. WACOMP is the West Africa Competitiveness Programme and this programme aims to support the improvement of access to regional and international markets for several value chains. WACOMP is implemented in each ECOWAS Member State. The ECOWAS, or Economic Community of West African States, is made up of sixteen member countries that are located in the Western African region. The ‘Meet the buyers’ events will be organized for all these countries. Pretty significant, right?

To be virtual or not to be virtual, that is the question

When it comes to organizing something these days, the first question that pops up is: ‘Can we meet physically, or should it be virtual?’ That is a decision the ECOWAS Commission is going to make in March 2021. But until then, there is plenty of work to be done. In the following weeks, we’ll be busy with establishing an identity, developing a website including a database, and start with identifying markets and local experts.

We’ll keep you posted!