BY Dyepkazah Shibayan
The Ford Foundation, Luminate Group, MacArthur Foundation, Open Society Foundations, and the Carnegie Corporation have launched a $20 million fund to strengthen democracy in the West African region.
Speaking at the launch in Abuja on Monday, Darren Walker, president of Ford Foundation, said his organisation believes in the dreams of the West African people.
“Ford Foundation believes in the vision, aspirations and dreams of the people of West Africa,” Walker said.
“These dreams are for the same things that we dream of and walk here in America to live peacefully, rule of law, shared prosperity and an opportunity for everyone who seeks an education seeks to live with dignity and have a livelihood.
“Democracy must deliver in order for these dreams and aspirations to be realised. Our work is simply to humbly serve. Serve all of you, serve the people of West Africa and ultimately serve the larger mission.”
On his part, Yusuf Tuggar, minister of foreign affairs, said democracy is worth funding because it ensures inclusivity.
“Funding democracy in West Africa and I ask why West Africa and I came to the conclusion that it has to be Africa because we don’t have benevolent dictators in West Africa,” Tuggar who was represented by Olaniyan Olukayode, an ambassador, said.
“But funding for what? Why do we need fund democracy in West Africa?
“Democracy is worth funding because it is the only system of government tha connects the leader and the led in such a way that your voice will be heard, in such a way that you are not seen as being done a favour.”
Akin Kekere-Ekun, chair of the board of directors, Shehu Musa Yar’Adua Foundation, said there is a need to rebuild trust in democratic institutions if democracy must thrive.
“It is also important to note, as President Tinubu observed at the Summit, that regional organizations like ECOWAS have a crucial role to play in defending and restoring democracy in our region,” Kekere-Ekun said.
“The West Africa Democracy Fund, by focusing on strengthening civil society and supporting rapid response initiatives, will complement the efforts of such regional bodies and contribute to a more coordinated and effective defense of democratic principles in West Africa.”
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