The Alliance of Sahel States (AES) has taken another significant step away from the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD). The move comes as the AES, which includes countries such as Mali, Mauritania, and Niger, seeks to strengthen its regional security and economic ties independently of external organizations. In a series of recent developments, Brussels’Sahel envoy, João Cravinho, is planning a tour of West Africa, including visits to Senegal and The Gambia, scheduled to take place on April 18. This tour is expected to further explore the region’s security dynamics and economic prospects.
In Mali, conciliation efforts by US diplomats to foster closer ties with the Bamako government have faced challenges. Amidst acute mistrust, the Trump administration supports the Malian junta while also exploring alternative options and maintaining a discreet line of communication with the opposition. This dual approach reflects the complexities of the political landscape in Mali.
Mauritania’s President Mohamed Ould Ghazouani is set to embark on a state visit to Paris in early April, a trip that carries symbolic importance against the backdrop of diminishing French influence in the Sahel and Nouakchott’s continued role as a key French partner.
In Niger, the junta led by General Abdourahamane Tchiani has been addressing significant difficulties in locating a Christian missionary, Kevin Rideout, who was abducted by jihadists in Niamey in October. Despite gathering information on Rideout’s initial whereabouts after his abduction, the authorities have faced challenges in pinpointing his current location.
In Mali, the junta led by Assimi Goïta is under pressure from the evolving Jihad, which includes the Group for the Support of Islam and Muslims and its allies. With Russian aid diminishing, the junta is increasingly isolated as it faces the advancing terrorist group, which aims to refine its political agenda and bring down the government.
Source: AfricaIntelligence
