From 6 to 17 July 2026, staff of the West African Monetary Agency (WAMA) participated in an enriching two-week in-house training programme on Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning at the Agency’s headquarters in Freetown, Sierra Leone.
The programme was facilitated by Dr Francis Mawuli Abude, an economist, data scientist and Artificial Intelligence specialist from Ghana. Dr Abude is associated with the Big Data Analytics Unit of the Research Department of the Bank of Ghana and has conducted research on the application of Artificial Intelligence and data analytics to monetary policy and macroeconomic analysis. His published work includes research on the development of AI-powered monetary policy communication indicators for macroeconomic analysis in Ghana.
Over the two weeks, participants strengthened their understanding of the fundamental principles of Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning and explored how these emerging technologies can support data analysis, economic research, forecasting and evidence-based policymaking.
The training also provided an opportunity for participants to appreciate the growing importance of data-driven techniques in improving the quality, timeliness and relevance of economic and financial analysis. Particular attention was given to the potential application of Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning in addressing complex analytical challenges and supporting more informed institutional decision-making.
Through the knowledge shared by the facilitator and the active participation of staff, the programme created a productive environment for learning, exchanging ideas and developing practical competencies relevant to the Agency’s mandate.
This capacity-building initiative reflects WAMA’s continued commitment to enhancing the professional and technical capabilities of its staff. It also forms part of the Agency’s broader efforts to promote innovation, strengthen its analytical capacity and encourage the responsible adoption of emerging technologies in support of monetary cooperation and regional economic integration in West Africa.
WAMA expresses its appreciation to Dr Francis Mawuli Abude for his valuable contribution, professional guidance and dedication throughout the training programme. The Agency also commends all participating staff members for their commitment and active engagement during the two weeks of learning.
