ECCAS: Strategic appointments and renewed commitment to strong community governance

Malabo, 24 January 2026 (Republic of Equatorial Guinea) - The Economic Community of Central African States (ECCAS) took an important step in strengthening its institutional architecture at the 9th Extraordinary Session of the Conference of Heads of State and Government, held by videoconference under the chairmanship of His Excellency Mr. Obiang Nguema MbasogoPresident of the Republic of Equatorial Guinea and current President of the Conference.

This session, devoted to the appointment of the Vice-Chairman and Commissioners of the ECCAS Commission, was part of a dynamic of strengthening community governance and revitalizing inclusive action in Central Africa. The effective participation of Heads of State and Government illustrated the region's continued commitment to the ideals of solidarity, cooperation and integration.

A highlight of institutional strengthening

The opening ceremony was marked by the speech of His Excellency Ambassador Dr. Ezekiel NibigiraChairman of the ECCAS Commission, followed by the address by the Chairman-in-Office of the Conference. The interventions highlighted the need to provide the Community with strong institutions capable of translating political orientations into concrete actions for the benefit of the people of Central Africa.

Based on the conclusions of the Council of Ministers, the Conference appointed the new Vice-President and Commissioners of the Commission. Mrs Mariam Mahamat Nour, a Chadian national, has been appointed Vice-President of the Commission, alongside five Commissioners who are called upon to lead Community policies in strategic areas.

It's about Mr. Mapangou Moussadji Marcel Yves (Gabon), Commissioner for Political Affairs, Peace and Security; Sir Tavira da Silva Olouimo Diai (Angola), Commissioner for the Common Market, Monetary and Financial Affairs; Sir Niaty-Mouamba Mauritius (Congo), Commissioner for Regional Planning and Infrastructure; Sir Nzita Nganga Di Mavambu Maxime (Democratic Republic of Congo), Commissioner for the Environment, Natural Resources, Agriculture and Rural Development; and Madame Banaken Elel Nelly (Cameroon), Commissioner for Gender Promotion, Human and Social Development.

Through these appointments, the Conference expressed its confidence in the new teams and urged them to carry out their functions in accordance with the principles of collegiality, integrity, independence and good governance that underpin the work of the Commission.

Equity, accountability and financial solidarity

In an effort to strengthen cohesion and equity between Member States, the Conference also endorsed the principle of rotation of the posts of Commissioners, mandate staff and heads of Community institutions. This direction reflects the commitment of Heads of State and Government to promote more inclusive and balanced governance within ECCAS.

Financial issues have also been central to trade. The Conference recalled the importance of meeting the financial commitments of Member States, including the regular payment of assessed contributions and the clearance of at least fifty per cent of arrears, which were essential to the effective functioning of the Organization.

With this in mind, the President of the Commission announced that, from 9 March 2026 onwards, a circular mission to the Member States would be carried out to encourage the payment of contributions and to promote the effective implementation of the Community Integration Contribution Mechanism (CIS). This instrument is expected to play a key role in financing integrative projects and strengthening ECCAS' financial autonomy.

A shared vision for the future

The Conference also welcomed the re-election of Their Excellencies Paul BiyaPresident of the Republic of Cameroon, and Faustin Archangel TouaderaPresident of the Central African Republic, while supporting the candidacy of the Republic of Chad as a non-permanent member of the United Nations Security Council for the period 2030–31.

In closing its work, the Conference addressed a motion of thanks to the President-in-Office for his leadership, as well as to the Government of the Republic of Equatorial Guinea for supporting the organization of this special session. It also commended the Chairman of the Commission and his teams for the work done.

Through this high-level meeting, ECCAS reaffirms its commitment to strengthening its institutions, promoting equitable governance and mobilizing the necessary resources to accelerate regional integration for the development and well-being of the peoples of Central Africa.