Togo unveiled a bold geopolitical and security blueprint for the Sahel during a pivotal meeting in Lomé on Saturday. The high-level gathering drew delegates from the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), the Alliance of Sahel States (AES), as well as envoys from France and the European Union.
The initiative seeks to reopen channels of communication with Mali, Niger and Burkina Faso—nations that have recently shifted away from ECOWAS and Western allies, opting instead to deepen ties with Russia.
Togo is positioning itself as a key mediator in the region, leveraging its strategic location and diplomatic influence to bridge divides between the Sahel and the global community, explained Togolese Foreign Minister Robert Dussey.
Togo’s five-point roadmap for Sahel stability
The 2026–2028 strategy outlines five core pillars:
- Political dialogue with the AES – Fostering trust and cooperation with Sahelian governments.
- Strengthened regional and international partnerships – Enhancing collaboration with ECOWAS, the European Union, and other key players.
- Counter-terrorism efforts – Addressing the growing threat from armed groups linked to Al-Qaeda and ISIS.
- Economic integration initiatives – Boosting trade and infrastructure links across West Africa.
- Cross-border security coordination – Preventing foreign actors from destabilizing neighboring states.
Representatives from the Alliance of Sahel States responded positively, signaling openness to deeper engagement with Togo’s proposals.
Sahel nations grapple with rising extremist threats
Mali’s Foreign Minister Abdoulaye Diop emphasized the need to “halt the presence of foreign forces that undermine regional peace and security.” His remarks underscore the urgent challenges facing the Sahel, where jihadist violence—linked to Al-Qaeda and ISIS—has claimed thousands of lives and spread into coastal nations like Togo and Benin.
