Dakar hosts the first International Forum of Economic Press in West Africa

From June 24 to 26, 2026, the Senegalese capital will host the first edition of the International Forum of Economic Press in West Africa (FIPE-UEMOA), under the theme: “Innovating for the economic future of West Africa”. This regional event aims to become a reference platform for dialogue between economic media, public decision-makers, and development actors.

The forum will bring together specialized journalists, government officials, representatives of regional and international institutions, development banks, private sector operators, agricultural stakeholders, as well as entrepreneurs and innovators from African technological ecosystems.

An organization supported by community institutions

The FIPE-UEMOA is organized by the UEMOA Media Platform, in partnership with the UEMOA Commission and several major community institutions, including the Central Bank of West African States (BCEAO), the West African Development Bank (BOAD), and the ECOWAS Investment and Development Bank (BIDC).

Through this initiative, the organizers aim to create a strategic framework for exchanges and reflections dedicated to ongoing economic changes in the sub-region, as well as to the levers that could accelerate its structural transformation.

An expert panel serving sustainable growth

High-level experts, leaders of financial institutions, political officials, business leaders, and economic specialists will participate in the discussions. They will share their analyses, experiences, and recommendations to promote more sustainable, inclusive, and resilient growth in West Africa.

The involvement of the UEMOA Commission, BCEAO, BOAD, and BIDC reflects their common desire to strengthen regional economic integration and support the necessary transformations for the competitiveness of West African economies.

Themes at the heart of development challenges

The forum aims to strengthen the quality of economic journalism, promote the dissemination of reliable and strategic information, encourage public and private investments, and promote growth and regional integration opportunities.

Over three days, participants will debate several key themes, including: economic policies and investment dynamics; digital transformation and financial inclusion; technological innovation and artificial intelligence; energy transition and climate financing; agriculture, agro-industry, and food security; as well as the role of the media in supporting economic transformations.

A space for reflection focused on action

In a regional context marked by numerous challenges – food security, energy transition, digital revolution, climate change, and demographic pressures – the FIPE-UEMOA aims to be a laboratory of ideas and initiatives for development.

The recommendations stemming from the discussions should contribute to enriching public policies, strengthening regional cooperation, and supporting the emergence of more competitive, inclusive, and sustainable economies. The forum also aims to highlight the essential role of economic media in understanding development challenges and supporting ongoing transformations within the UEMOA and West Africa.