Togo is considering joining the Alliance of Sahel States, which may weaken ECOWAS’s influence in West Africa. This potential shift, driven by geopolitical, economic, and security interests, reflects changing regional dynamics. Togo’s foreign minister has indicated the importance of this decision, which could provide significant benefits amid increasing security threats.
Togo is considering a strategic shift in its foreign relations by exploring membership in the Alliance of Sahel States (AES), comprising military-led Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger. This potential move could exacerbate the weakening influence of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), particularly following the recent exit of the three Sahelian countries from this bloc.
Foreign Minister Robert Dussey has publicly expressed Togo’s interest in the AES, stating that while membership was “not impossible” as of January, the country is now actively contemplating the decision. Togo’s affiliation with the AES could enhance regional cooperation and provide crucial maritime access for the landlocked nations of the Sahel via Togo’s port at Lomé.
Amid strained relations between the Sahel states and ECOWAS members, including Ivory Coast and Benin, there have been indications of trade diversion toward Togo. Analysts propose that formalizing this relationship might yield substantial economic and security improvements for Togo and its potential partners. Political analyst Madi Djabakate noted possible benefits such as “access to Nigerien oil” and improvements in military cooperation.
The AES was initially established as a defense coalition and aims to form a unified military force of 5,000 troops, resonating well with Togo’s rising security priorities due to increasing jihadist threats from neighboring Burkina Faso. This shift aligns with emerging pan-Africanist ideas, where countries strive for collective strength, as emphasized by Djabakate.
Internal political dynamics may also play a role in Togo’s considerations, especially since President Faure Gnassingbé has faced scrutiny for actions perceived as extending his stay in power. Collaborating with the AES might offer protective benefits against ECOWAS’s governance pressures. Opposition leader Nathaniel Olympio cautioned about the repercussions of exiting ECOWAS, arguing that AES affiliation might shield Togo’s regime from accountability on rule of law.
ECOWAS’s integrity is under strain following the formal withdrawal of Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso, who cited the bloc’s alignment with Western interests over their pressing security issues. Despite this evident pivot, it is suggested that Togo may wish to maintain ties with ECOWAS as well, given the critical role of Lomé’s port for West African trade.
Nevertheless, analysts predict that Togo’s potential membership in the AES could further accelerate ECOWAS’s deterioration. Seidik Abba, head of the International Center for Studies and Reflections on the Sahel, indicated that this could worsen the region’s geopolitical stability. As regional power dynamics continue to shift, Togo’s imminent decision may significantly influence either the reinforcement of ECOWAS or the ascent of the AES.
Togo’s exploration of joining the Alliance of Sahel States presents a critical juncture in West African geopolitics, potentially undermining the Economic Community of West African States. With insights from political analysts emphasizing regional cooperation and security benefits, the implications of such a shift could significantly impact economic stability and governance dynamics in the region. The future trajectory of both ECOWAS and the AES will depend on Togo’s strategic decisions in the coming months.
Original Source: www.pulse.ng
