Governance

The West African Accreditation System (SOAC) is the expression of a common vision of the member states of the West African Economic and Monetary Union (WAEMU), intended to contribute to the effectiveness and efficiency of the regional quality infrastructure through the accreditation of conformity assessment bodies.

In doing so, SOAC is the sole accreditation body for the eight WAEMU states. In accordance with the provisions of Article 2 of the SOAC Statutes, SOAC aims to implement, in its member states, particularly those of the West African Economic and Monetary Union (WAEMU), an Accreditation System in compliance with relevant international standards and taking into account the needs and expectations of the various stakeholders.

The SOAC is a sub-regional institution with diplomatic status and operates with governance bodies.

These organs are as follows:

• The General Assembly;
• The Board of Directors;
• The Resident Representation - General Directorate

The missions and responsibilities of each body are described in the Statutes and Internal Regulations of SOAC.