Togo is contemplating joining the Alliance of Sahel States (AES), a move that could reshape its foreign relations and its standing within the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), the country’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Robert Dussey, suggested in an interview on Thursday.
Although no official discussions have been initiated, Dussey stated that the possibility is not far-fetched, adding that it is ultimately a decision for the President of the Republic. “It is the decision of the president of the republic, but it is not impossible,” he told Voxafrica.
Dussey further expressed his dissatisfaction with Africa’s current geopolitical position, emphasizing that the continent is often treated as a subordinate by global powers. “Africa is only used to serve the great powers; this is not normal,” he remarked. The minister also noted that Mali’s recent political shifts under President Assimi Goïta could provide a turning point for the country, presenting “an opportunity” for Mali and its allies.
Togo’s potential shift toward AES would align the country with Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger—three nations that form the regional bloc. If the move materializes, Togo’s capital city, Lomé, could become a vital maritime hub, potentially providing crucial ports to the landlocked countries of Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger, which currently face logistical challenges.
However, joining the AES could mean Togo’s withdrawal from ECOWAS, a group it has been part of for decades. ECOWAS has faced tension with the AES countries after the latter criticized the bloc for its perceived inadequate support in addressing terrorism. The AES members also expressed dissatisfaction with ECOWAS’s alignment with former colonial power France. In January, the AES trio made a controversial exit from ECOWAS, leading to economic sanctions imposed by the bloc. The decision was formally acknowledged by ECOWAS in December, marking a significant rupture between the groups.
Should Togo pursue this course, it would represent a significant departure from its current socio-political alignment and signal a broader shift in West African diplomacy. Dussey, however, remains optimistic, suggesting that the people of Togo would support such a move. “Ask the Togolese people if they want to join the AES; I think they’d say yes,” he concluded.
As discussions around Togo’s potential membership in AES continue, the future of West African regional politics remains uncertain, with geopolitical tensions likely to shape the continent’s trajectory in the years to come.
