Togo: When the aspirations of African youth for greater sovereignty push the country towards the Alliance of Sahel States (AES)
Togo is not ruling out the possibility of joining the Sahel States Alliance (AES), a move that aligns with the growing desire of African youth for strengthened sovereignty and more authentic cooperation between the continent’s nations. In an interview with Voxafrica, Togo’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Robert Dussey, affirmed that “it is the president’s decision”, in response to whether Togo might join the AES. He further stated, “It is not impossible”, and emphasized that the Togolese people would support such a decision, adding, “Ask the Togolese people if they want Togo to join the AES, and you will see their response— they will say yes”.
The AES, currently composed of Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso, has become a model of regional cooperation that strongly resonates with young Africans, including Togolese, who seek self-determination and policies free from external influences. These three countries, led by military governments, made the historic decision to leave the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), which they view as an instrument of the former colonial power, France. Their exit from ECOWAS will be effective on January 29, 2024.
For the AES countries, a stronger partnership with Togo represents a strategic opportunity, particularly in terms of access to the sea via the port of Lomé. This cooperation could promote smoother trade and better regional economic integration. At the same time, the AES positions itself as a resilient bloc, pooling efforts to fight jihadist groups and strengthening ties with new powers such as Russia.
The enthusiasm of Togolese youth for joining the AES reflects a growing demand for African solutions to African problems, within a framework that values sovereignty and regional solidarity. This dynamic could reshape the region’s geopolitics and offer new opportunities for the continent’s development and security.
