Africa-Press – Liberia. Edwin Harris Jr., who previously served as head of Liberia’s Financial Intelligence Agency, assumed duty as Director General of the Intergovernmental Action Group against Money Laundering in West Africa based in Dakar, Senegal, on August 1, 2022.
The Director General of the Inter-Governmental Action Group against Money Laundering in West Africa (GIABA), Mr. Edwin W. Harris Jr., on Thursday delivered a sweeping assessment of the region’s progress in combating financial crimes, praising member states for significant reforms while urging deeper cooperation and stronger collective action during the opening of the 44th GIABA Plenary in Liberia.
Addressing delegates at the Farmington Hotel, Harris extended gratitude to President Joseph Nyuma Boakai, the Government, and people of Liberia for what he described as “gracious hospitality” and exceptional arrangements in hosting one of GIABA’s most important annual gatherings.
“Liberia’s generosity and strong commitment to regional cooperation exemplify the true spirit of ECOWAS solidarity,” Harris said, applauding national institutions for their role in hosting the event.
‘A 25-Year Journey of Protecting West Africa’s Financial Integrity’
Mr. Harris used his opening statement to reflect on GIABA’s 25-year journey since its establishment by ECOWAS Heads of State. He highlighted the institution’s sustained efforts in combating money laundering, terrorist financing, corruption, illicit drug trafficking, and other transnational threats that undermine economic stability and peace in the region.
He noted that GIABA has helped shape a regional financial architecture anchored in integrity, strengthened governance, and a commitment to rule of law—critical pillars, he argued, for ending poverty and safeguarding democratic institutions.
“We have come a long way in securing regional peace and stability,” he said. “A financial system built on integrity must not benefit only a selected few while the majority wallow in poverty.”
Major Gains in FATF Compliance—Nigeria and Burkina Faso Exit Grey List
Providing a detailed update on GIABA’s progress under the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) monitoring process, Harris announced that nearly all GIABA member states earlier placed on the FATF Grey List have now exited, with the exception of Côte d’Ivoire, which he said is “well advanced” in implementing its action plan.
He praised Nigeria and Burkina Faso for demonstrating “strong political will,” leading to their removal from the Grey List at the October 2025 FATF Plenary.
“This achievement is a clear reflection of the region’s commitment and the technical support GIABA continues to provide,” he remarked.
Push for Greater Inclusion in FATF: ‘Time for Joint Membership’
Harris also announced momentum behind GIABA’s push for joint membership in the FATF, arguing that West Africa’s size, economic weight, and demonstrated capacity justify a stronger voice in the global AML/CFT system.
He noted that the Federal Republic of Nigeria is now the second GIABA member, after Senegal, to hold guest membership status at the FATF.
“Given that our region hosts Africa’s largest economy and a population exceeding 400 million, it is only fair that we pursue joint membership as an FSRB,” he emphasized.
New Membership Applications and Regional Expansion
The Director General disclosed that GIABA has received membership applications from the three AES countries—non-ECOWAS states seeking admission into the GIABA framework. He said the GIABA Ministerial Committee approved the applications in July 2025, with final consideration now before the ECOWAS Council of Ministers.
Preparedness for Third-Round Mutual Evaluations
Harris commended member states for the “significant reforms” undertaken ahead of the ongoing Third Round of Mutual Evaluations, urging governments to deepen inter-agency coordination, invest in technical capacities, and ensure that competent authorities remain adequately resourced.
He stressed that asset recovery must remain central to national AML/CFT strategies.
“Denying access to the proceeds of crime is one of the surest ways to take the profit out of crime,” he said.
Key Documents for Deliberation
During the week-long Plenary, delegates are expected to review and consider several high-level reports and strategic documents, including summary Activity Report of the Director General, reports of the Co-Chairs of the Evaluation and Compliance Group (ECG), enhanced Follow-Up Reports for Mali and Niger, memoranda on the exit of Nigeria and Benin from the 2nd Round Follow-Up Process and Technical Assistance Group memorandum
The delegates are also expected to review reports on supranational AML/CFT harmonization, outcomes of the October 2025 FATF Plenary, final Report of the 44th GIABA Technical Commission / Plenary
A Call for Stronger Cooperation
Harris underscored that while GIABA provides technical and strategic support, national governments bear the greatest responsibility for preventing and combating financial crimes.
He encouraged member states to strengthen domestic cooperation and prioritize risk-based approaches to enforcement.
Liberia Commended for Hosting
Before closing, the Director General expressed deep appreciation to the Government and people of Liberia, as well as the management of the Farmington Hotel, for their hospitality and support.
“I wish you fruitful deliberations and a pleasant stay in Liberia,” Harris concluded, delivering his remarks in English, French, and Portuguese.
Harris, who previously served as head of Liberia’s Financial Intelligence Agency, assumed duty as Director General of the Intergovernmental Action Group against Money Laundering in West Africa based in Dakar, Senegal, on August 1, 2022.
He holds a Master of Public Administration (MPA) from Northeastern University in Boston, USA; a Master of Business Administration (MBA) from Strayer University in Woodbridge, Virginia, USA; and a Bachelor of Science (B.Sc.) in Economics and Political Science from the University of Liberia.
Harris is now nearing the completion of his tenure as head of GIABA. President Boakai, who attended the opening ceremony, used the occasion to recognize Harris—a Liberian national—for his accomplishments and for making the country proud.
“We are proud of you and wish you well,” the President said. “Your experience and expertise will be needed here at home.”
Speaking briefly to reporters after the ceremony, Harris said he was proud of his record at GIABA and looked forward to returning home at the end of his tenure.
Meanwhile, the 44th GIABA Plenary continues this week with technical sessions, country reviews, and high-level strategy meetings aimed at deepening West Africa’s resilience against financial crimes.
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