Members of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) Parliament are expressing deep concern over the growing shortfalls in community levy remittances from some member countries. This issue came to the forefront during the closing ceremony of the two-day induction session for ECOWAS Parliament members, led by Speaker Hon. Memounatou Ibrahima, in Lome, Togo.
Challenges in Remittances
According to Director of Finance and Administration Anna Jagne, 2024 has been the worst year for compliance with levy remittances, with serious implications for the regional bloc’s operations. The community levy, a 0.5% tax on goods from non-ECOWAS member states, accounts for 70-90% of the ECOWAS budget.
Causes and Concerns
Nigerian MP Awaji Abiante attributes the difficulty in remitting the levy to dwindling economic fortunes and pressing domestic needs. “The issue of community levy is directly related to the state of our economies…as long as our economies are moving southwards, contributing to the purse will be challenging,” he said.
Call to Action
The Gambia’s MP Darbo Alhagie emphasized the need to identify defaulting countries and encourage payment . “If countries are not paying their levy, it will affect the operations of the Parliament and other ECOWAS institutions.”
A Milestone Session
Speaker Memounatou Ibrahima hailed the induction session as a milestone, deepening knowledge of ECOWAS institutions and members’ roles. “We are the custodians of our people’s aspirations. These resources are a treasure for ECOWAS institutions.”
The community levy’s significance cannot be overstated, and addressing these shortfalls is crucial for ECOWAS’s continued effectiveness.
Add Comment