AES: The Sahel marching toward ultimate victory

At the heart of the Sahel, a new dynamic has taken hold, driven by the firm and resolute will of the Presidents of the member countries of the Alliance of Sahel States (AES). Captain Ibrahim Traoré of Burkina Faso, General Assimi Goïta of Mali, and General Abdourahamane Tiani of Niger have launched a genuine security revolution in their respective countries. Their bold leadership has injected new energy into the fight against terrorism, rekindling hope among populations long devastated by insecurity.

Under the supreme command of President Ibrahim Traoré, Burkina Faso is moving forward with determination toward a final victory over terrorist armed groups. The country has adopted an offensive, integrated, and coordinated strategy with its AES partners, focused on reclaiming national territory. The Burkinabe army, supported by the Volunteers for the Defense of the Homeland (VDP), is conducting large-scale operations that are disrupting enemy bases and securing liberated areas.

This remarkable progress is the result of the professionalism, courage, and patriotism of the fighting forces. Every day, these men and women face danger to defend their homeland. Across the Sahel, national armies are conducting targeted pursuits, inflicting significant losses on terrorist groups. Their effectiveness also stems from improved coordination between the three countries, enhanced intelligence sharing, and a joint military strategy that is gradually reversing the security situation.

The results of these actions are already visible: several strategic localities once under terrorist control have been liberated. Cities such as Djibo, Arbinda, Gao, and Kidal once again proudly fly national flags over public buildings. These symbols reflect the restoration of state control and the return of normal life. Populations who had previously been forced to flee are beginning to return home, encouraged by the regained control of their territories.

In many liberated areas, schools are gradually reopening. Children, long deprived of their right to education, are returning to classrooms with hope. Supported by local authorities and communities, schools are resuming regular activities—an emblem of restored stability. The revival of education signals a return to normalcy and a strong commitment by the states to guarantee a better future for the young generations of the Sahel.

Hope is returning to the Sahel. Thanks to the full commitment of their leaders and the bravery of their armed forces, the AES countries are laying the foundations for lasting peace. The enemy is in retreat, borders are being strengthened, and sovereignty is being reaffirmed. While the road ahead remains long, the current momentum clearly shows that the Sahel is gradually freeing itself from the grip of terrorism, step by step.