Togo is contemplating membership in the Alliance of Sahel States (AES), which includes Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger. This could allow Togo to provide crucial port access to these landlocked countries. While potential benefits include enhanced trade and military cooperation, concerns arise over Togo’s commitment to ECOWAS and democratic governance, especially with ongoing domestic criticism.
Togo is exploring potential membership in the Alliance of Sahel States (AES), alongside junta-led nations Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger. This confederation could allow Togo to offer vital port access, significantly benefiting the landlocked member states. Foreign Minister Robert Dussey indicated that joining the AES could bolster regional cooperation, stating, “Togo is considering joining the AES, a strategic decision that could strengthen regional cooperation and offer access to the sea to member countries.”
Access to ports is crucial for these landlocked countries, especially amid tensions with neighboring Ivory Coast and Benin. These countries are utilizing Togo’s port in Lome and the Ghanaian port of Tema. Analysts suggest that Togo joining AES could enhance trade opportunities, with Togolese analyst Madi Djabakate mentioning potential benefits like economic solidarity and better military cooperation.
Northern Togo has seen increased jihadist activity, adding urgency to the discussions surrounding AES membership. The AES leaders, who have struggled against jihadist threats, plan to form a 5,000-troop joint force. Togo supports their strategy of reclaiming sovereignty and has moved away from France, aligning with Russia and other partners to diversify international relations.
By deepening ties with AES, Togo embraces a pan-African identity, per Djabakate’s commentary on regional unity. President Faure Gnassingbé has maintained power since 2005 with a pro-pan-African stance, gaining favor among citizens as he extends the political transition period. Togo’s moves raise concerns over potential conflicts with ECOWAS, especially since opposition figures fear that AES membership could shield Togo from ECOWAS’s democratic mandates.
Any shift towards AES is seen as a strategy to divert attention from domestic criticisms regarding a controversial new constitution. Sociologist Francis Akindes highlighted a shared refusal for political transition among Togo and AES countries. While some experts like Nathaniel Olympio express concern over straying from ECOWAS, others argue Togo could maintain both memberships. Djabakate notes that alliances are not exclusive and Togo’s port remains essential for regional connectivity. However, Seidik Abba warns that Togo joining AES might accelerate ECOWAS disintegration and worsen existing regional tensions.
Togo is considering joining the Alliance of Sahel States to enhance regional cooperation, particularly by providing critical port access for its landlocked neighbors. While this move could offer trade and military benefits, it may raise concerns about Togo’s commitment to democratic principles upheld by ECOWAS. Balancing both memberships may present challenges, as analysts indicated this could strain the relationship with ECOWAS and impact regional stability.
Original Source: thedefensepost.com
