Sierra Leone, Liberia Attorneys Enhance ECOWAS Court Skills

In a move to strengthen its legal representation at the ECOWAS Court of Justice, the Sierra Leonean government, in collaboration with the Community Court of Justice, ECOWAS Court, recently concluded a four-day capacity-building training program for State Attorneys from the Law Officers’ Department.

Held at the Sierra Leone Law School Complex and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Sierra Leone from July 28th to 31st, 2025, the training aimed to provide attorneys with a deeper understanding of ECOWAS Community law, practice, and jurisprudence.

Hon. Justice Sengu Mohamed Koroma, Vice-President of the ECOWAS Court, emphasised the significance of the training.

He noted the unfortunate trend of cases from Sierra Leone being dismissed at the ECOWAS Court due to technicalities and procedural errors, often requiring reliance on legal representation from neighbouring countries.

Justice Koroma expressed confidence that the training would equip the lawyers with the necessary tools and knowledge to provide superior representation.

He also acknowledged Attorney-General and Minister of Justice Alpha Sesay’s commitment to the continuous training and professional development of the State’s legal officers.

“Sierra Leone has consistently brought various matters before the Court. The State’s decision to request the Court’s assistance in enhancing the capabilities of its lawyers to sustain this engagement is therefore laudable,” Justice Koroma stated.

“The Court remains committed to educating Member States on Community law and practice and sharing its jurisprudence.”

Attorney-General and Minister of Justice Alpha Sesay echoed this sentiment, emphasising his office’s commitment to effective justice delivery that enhances the rights of all citizens.

He urged the legal officers to actively participate and familiarise themselves with Community Law, Jurisprudence, and applicable laws relevant to the administration of justice within the ECOWAS Court framework.

“I encourage the participants to take full advantage of this opportunity to ensure that the State receives effective representation before the Court,” he said.

The training covered a comprehensive range of topics, including the jurisdiction of the ECOWAS Court, admissibility of evidence, non-exhaustion of local remedies, sources of law, the human rights mandate, written and oral procedures, and addressing default judgments.

Experienced lawyers from the ECOWAS Court facilitated the training, leading practical exercises on drafting, filing, and oral advocacy techniques.

The ECOWAS Court delegation, led by Hon. President Ricardo Cláudio Monteiro Goncalves and Hon. Vice-President Sengu Mohamed Koroma, also conducted courtesy visits with high-ranking officials within the Sierra Leonean government.

This high-level mission and dedicated training underscore the ECOWAS Court’s commitment to improving professional legal practice across the region.

A similar training program was recently held in Accra, Ghana, further demonstrating the Court’s dedication to capacity building within its member states.