AES: Two years of unity, action, and raising awareness in the Sahel
In just two years of existence, the Confederation of the Alliance of Sahel States (AES) has laid the foundations for a profound transformation in the Sahel region. Born from the shared will of Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger, the AES embodies a new regional dynamic built on sovereignty, solidarity, and concrete action.
The first major achievement is the revolution of mindsets. In the three countries, people—especially the youth—are spontaneously mobilizing to defend institutions, participate in civic initiatives, and support defense forces. This collective awareness reflects a deep change: the people are becoming active agents of their own security and development.
On the political and institutional front, the AES has established collegial governance, a common diplomacy, and a joint force of 5,000 troops. Economic integration has accelerated with the adoption of a common customs duty, the standardization of customs systems, and the creation of the Confederation Investment and Development Bank (BCID-AES).
Digital and media sovereignty has also been strengthened through a comprehensive digital platform, a WebTV, a biometric passport, a community visa, and an ongoing satellite project. Phone roaming among the three countries is now free of extra charges.
The AES has also launched its own Sports Games, a Criminal and Human Rights Court, and a humanitarian forum to reduce dependence on external aid. All these achievements reflect a firm determination to build a united, resilient, and forward-looking Sahel space under the leadership of General Assimi Goïta, Captain Ibrahim Traoré, and General Abdourahamane Tiani.
