On May 7, 2026, Faure Essozimna Gnassingbé, President of the Council and Supreme Head of the Armed Forces, conducted a critical field visit to the Koundjoaré operation zone in northern Togo. This strategic move underscores the government’s commitment to addressing persistent terrorist threats in the Savanes Region.
Landing near the operational area around 10 a.m., the Supreme Head of the Armed Forces was greeted by the Koundjoaré operation commander. The visit included a detailed briefing at the Operational Command Post (PCO), where he reviewed the latest security developments, ongoing operations, and the challenges faced by deployed troops.
Following the briefing, President Gnassingbé provided new strategic directives aimed at enhancing the effectiveness of military units on the ground.
His visit continued to the advanced operational post of Tchamonga, located along the eastern border. There, after a tactical demonstration using a sand table, he addressed the soldiers directly. He commended their bravery, professionalism, and unwavering dedication to protecting the nation’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.
The Supreme Head of the Armed Forces also praised the troops for their achievements amid challenging regional security conditions. He highlighted the strong cooperation between Togo’s forces and those of neighboring countries in countering terrorism.
Reaffirming the military leadership’s full support for Operation Koundjoaré, the President assured troops that their operational needs would progressively be met to further strengthen their capabilities.
He urged the forces to remain highly vigilant, disciplined, and resolute in the face of destabilization attempts across West Africa.
In his welcoming address, Colonel Kombaté Latiémbé, Commander of Operation Koundjoaré, expressed gratitude for the resources provided by the government to ensure effective defense and security operations. He reaffirmed the troops’ commitment to securing both the population and national territory with determination.
Beyond military action, this visit reflects Togo’s holistic strategy in addressing security challenges. Alongside defense and security forces, multiple state mechanisms—such as the Interministerial Committee for Preventing and Combating Violent Extremism (CIPLEV) and the Emergency Program for the Savanes Region (PURS)—are actively involved in strengthening community resilience.
This comprehensive effort is further supported by diplomatic and mediation initiatives spearheaded by the President to promote peace, dialogue, and stability across West Africa.
