Sahel: The AES announces the creation of an army of 5,000 soldiers to combat jihadism

The Alliance of Sahel States (AES), comprising Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger, has announced plans to establish a « unified force » of 5,000 troops to combat terrorism effectively. This initiative represents a major step forward in military cooperation among these three nations, bound together by shared security challenges.

The creation of this patriotic force, set to be operational within weeks, underscores the AES countries’ determination to take charge of their own security and reinforce their sovereignty in the face of transnational threats.

Drawing on seasoned soldiers from the national armies of its member states, the force will operate under a coordinated command structure to ensure effective action on the ground.

Many African analysts view this development as a pivotal move toward a united front against jihadist insurgencies.

It reflects a growing recognition that the solution to the Sahel’s security crises lies in regional solidarity and the mobilization of local resources, rather than heavy reliance on foreign intervention.

This initiative also serves as a bold declaration of the member states’ sovereignty.

It builds on the alliance’s recent diplomatic and economic efforts to deepen regional collaboration and pursue self-reliant strategies for addressing shared challenges.

Neil Camara