Regional integration: The WAEMU Media Platform launches the "Abdoulaye Diop Prize" and a day dedicated to the Union

On the sidelines of the awareness-raising session for journalists from member states, held from September 14 to 18, 2026, in Ouagadougou, focusing on the projects of the WAEMU Commission, Léonard Dossou, coordinator of the WAEMU Media Platform, announced the creation of the "Abdoulaye Diop Prize" and the establishment of a "WAEMU Information Day." These two innovative initiatives aim to strengthen the coverage of integration issues and celebrate the commitment to the community.

During a meeting between the regional economic press and the president of the WAEMU Commission, Abdoulaye Diop, the WAEMU Media Platform (PDM-UEMOA) unveiled the main directions of the next edition of the International Forum of the Economic Press of West Africa (FIPE-UEMOA).

A prestigious award to honor community engagement

The first major innovation lies in the creation of the "Abdoulaye Diop Prize". This prestigious award will be presented at the next editions of the FIPE-UEMOA to recognize an individual whose actions and initiatives have a tangible impact on the development and integration of the community space.

Speaking at a press conference held in the Burkinabe capital, Léonard Dossou clarified the significance of this institutional choice: “The selection of the Commission President’s name is not merely a formality, but a meaningful tribute intended to recognize his decisive action and enlightened vision in support of the media, as well as his unwavering commitment to strengthening the community.” Through this award, the PDM-UEMOA aims to highlight exemplary leadership and inspire other stakeholders to actively participate in building a united West African community.

​

A UEMOA information day anchored in the newsrooms of the eight member states

The second initiative involves the creation of a "UEMOA Information Day," designed in close collaboration with the Commission's Communications Department. This event will see a full day dedicated to the organization's news, missions, and major projects, held simultaneously in each of the eight member countries of the Union.

During this special day, participating news outlets—whether print, television, or radio—will be invited to produce and broadcast content exclusively focused on community issues. This initiative aims to bring the institution closer to local populations, raise citizens' awareness of integration opportunities, and permanently establish regional news as a core element of journalistic work.