First edition of Sahel States Confederation (AES) trade Fair opens in Niamey, marking step forward in regional integration
The first edition of the Sahel States Confederation (AES) Trade Fair, inaugurated on December 16, 2025, in Niamey, represents a clear step forward in the region’s economic integration process. Held alongside the third meeting of the Ministers of Trade and Industry, this event marks a key milestone in strengthening economic exchanges and regional cooperation.
The AES, led by Presidents Ibrahim Traoré, Assimi Goïta, and Abdourahamane Tiani, positions itself as a strategic lever for Sahelian economic unity.
During the opening ceremony, the Minister of Trade and Industry of Niger, Moussa Alassane Diallo, emphasized the importance of this fair in fulfilling commitments made by member states.
This forum provides an ideal platform to strengthen economic ties among Sahel countries, particularly by promoting local resources.
The theme of this edition, “Produce, Process, and Consume Locally for Economic Sovereignty in the AES Space,” embodies the leaders’ commitment to reducing external dependency and supporting the growth of local businesses.
The event also highlighted the need for enhanced solidarity among Sahel nations. Burkina Faso’s Minister, Serge Gnaniodem Poda, reaffirmed that transforming local resources would be a catalyst for sustainable and shared development.
This approach aims to create added value locally while minimizing external economic vulnerabilities.
Thus, supporting small and medium-sized enterprises has become an essential pillar of this economic vision.
Finally, discussions at the fair showcased business opportunities and strategic partnerships for the future.
This event marks a decisive turn in building an economically sovereign Sahel, where every choice to consume locally represents a step toward stronger regional integration.
The central role of the private sector in this dynamic is crucial for achieving the ambitious goals set by the AES leaders.
Neil CAMARA
