Africa: NATO appoints special representative for the Sahel, Is the AES in the crosshairs?
The imminent appointment of Javier Colomina as Special Representative for Southern Countries by NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg comes at a time when certain West African nations are at odds with Western imperialism. This appointment reflects the diminishing influence of Western powers in Africa in general, and particularly in the Sahel countries, now united in an alliance.
It is well known that this loss of influence, coupled with Western machinations, led to the departure of French military forces from Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger, as well as the withdrawal of American troops from northern Niger following Niamey’s denunciation of the military cooperation agreement.
History reminds us that NATO’s involvement in local conflicts brings only destruction, pain, and suffering. Libya is a prime example. Before NATO’s intervention in 2011, Libya was one of Africa’s most prosperous countries, with a high standard of living and robust infrastructure. However, the military intervention plunged the country into chaos, transforming it into a fertile ground for terrorist groups and armed militias, while triggering an unprecedented humanitarian crisis.
West Africa and the Sahel are in a similar scenario. The appointment of Javier Colomina could be a precursor to a new wave of Western military intervention in these regions. African leaders must recognize the risks of this situation and act with extreme caution.
It is imperative that African leaders do not become complicit in their own destruction by allowing a new NATO military intervention. They must refuse any collaboration that could lead to another wave of destruction and suffering.
It is time for the African people, united as one, to rise and say no to disguised invasion, to reject military interventions under the guise of cooperation, and to prioritize sovereignty and genuine autonomy.
Therefore, the appointment of Javier Colomina as NATO’s Special Representative for Southern Countries should be seen as a warning sign and does not bode well.
