By: Sampson David

Monrovia-Liberia – The Executive Director of Kids Educational Engagement Project, Madam Brenda Moore, has been elected as Deputy Presiding Officer for West Africa at the African Union on Economic, Social & Cultural Council (ECOSOCC).

Madam Moore is the first female and first Liberian to serve as Deputy Presiding Officer since the organization was established in 2004. She was unanimously   voted for by members of the West African region serving in the 4th General Assembly.

“I am truly honored to have been elected to serve as Deputy Presiding Officer (DPO) for West Africa at the African Union’s ECOSOCC.

It’s a great opportunity to take the concerns of citizens to the level of the AU, representing not just Liberia by also the entire ECOWAS region of 15 countries.  Most people are aware of the SDGs, but not the AU’s.”

She further said, “Same for various policies of the AU and how those affect ordinary citizens.” This role also involves engaging with member states, various parliamentarians, media, and civil society organizations of the ECOWAS region” Madam Moore lamented.

As the first Liberian to serve in this position, KEEP’s Executive Director looks forward to bringing positive attention to Liberia.

“As the only female (and youngest) elected, it is going to be interesting navigating the dynamics.” This also provides us the opportunity to share more information on the AU’s Agenda 2063 which isn’t well known across the continent,” she concluded.

The role involves interacting with regional actors such as media, parliamentarians, civil society organizations and national actors in sharing information about the AU organ, popularization of the mandates of the AU to bring citizens closer to the people.

Economic, Social and Cultural Council (ECOSOCC) is an advisory organ of the African Union designed to give civil society organizations a voice within the AU institutions and decision-making processes and provide an opportunity for African Civil Society Organizations to play an active role in contributing to the AU’s principles, policies, and programs.