Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger are three Sahel countries in West Africa that have formed a confederation known as the Alliance of Sahel States (AES). Here are some key details about these countries and their relationship:
Formation of AES The AES was formed in response to growing discontent with the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), which the three countries felt was not addressing their security concerns. They also sought to reduce dependence on traditional partners like France .
Key Features of AES
Common Passport: The AES has launched a common biometric passport and identity card for citizens, facilitating travel within the region.
Military Cooperation: The alliance plans to establish a joint military force of 5,000 troops to combat jihadist insurgencies.
Economic Integration: The countries aim to boost intra-regional cooperation, reduce dependence on external partners, and potentially create a monetary union.
Financial Sovereignty: The AES has established the Confederal Bank for Investment and Development (CBID) to provide autonomous financing for critical infrastructure and development projects .
Relationship with ECOWAS
Withdrawal: Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger formally withdrew from ECOWAS in January 2025, citing the bloc’s “inhuman, illegal, and illegitimate” sanctions.
Transitional Arrangements: ECOWAS has maintained that goods and services from the three countries will continue to enjoy benefits under the ECOWAS Trade Liberalization Scheme (ETLS) until further notice .
Challenges and Opportunities
Security: The Sahel region faces significant security challenges, including jihadist insurgencies and terrorist threats.
Economic Potential: The AES countries have significant natural resources, including uranium, gold, and lithium, which could drive economic growth and development.
Regional Integration: The AES represents a shift towards greater regional integration and cooperation in the Sahel, potentially creating new opportunities for economic growth and development .
