ECA is mandated to support the economic and social development of its 53 Member States, foster regional integration, and promote international cooperation for Africa's development. Established in 1958 ECA, convenes a number of intergovernmental organizations and committees.

The ECA programme, Transition from Poor to Better Stewardship of the Environment, involves assisting in the integration of environmental concerns (especially deforestation) in economic decision-making.

Relevance to forests by key words

sustainable development, environment, capacity building, regional cooperation, regional development