Mariama Hamani
On a strategic field visit to the northern region of Togo, President Faure Essozimna Gnassingbé, who also serves as the Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces, conducted an inspection of the Operation Koundjoaré on 7 May 2026. This mission was part of a broader effort to assess and strengthen security operations against rising terrorist threats in the Savanes Region.
Upon landing by helicopter, the Supreme Commander was welcomed by the Commander of Operation Koundjoaré around 10:00 AM. The visit continued with a tour of the Operational Command Post (PCO), where President Gnassingbé received a detailed briefing on current security developments, ongoing military actions, and the challenges faced by deployed troops.
Following the briefing, the Head of State provided new strategic directives aimed at enhancing the operational effectiveness of the forces stationed in the area.
The visit then moved to the advanced operational post in Tchamonga, located along the eastern border. Here, after a tactical demonstration using a sand table, Faure Gnassingbé addressed the troops directly. He commended their bravery, professionalism, and unwavering commitment to protecting the nation’s territorial integrity.
The Supreme Commander also praised the achievements of the forces in a region where security challenges remain persistent. He highlighted the importance of regional cooperation, particularly with neighboring countries, in the fight against terrorism.
Reaffirming the military leadership’s full support for Operation Koundjoaré, the President assured troops that their expressed needs would be progressively addressed to further bolster operational capabilities.
He urged the armed forces to maintain high levels of vigilance, discipline, and resolve in the face of ongoing destabilization attempts across West Africa.
Colonel Kombaté Latiémbé, Commander of Operation Koundjoaré, opened his remarks by expressing gratitude to the President for the resources allocated to defense and security forces. He reaffirmed the troops’ dedication to securing both the population and the national territory.
Beyond military action, the visit underscores Togo’s holistic approach to addressing regional security challenges. Alongside defense efforts, multiple state mechanisms—including the Interministerial Committee for the Prevention and Fight Against Violent Extremism (CIPLEV) and the Emergency Program for the Savanes Region (PURS)—are actively working to strengthen community resilience in affected areas.
This comprehensive strategy is further supported by diplomatic and mediation initiatives led by the President, aimed at fostering peace, dialogue, and stability throughout West Africa.
Boureima Amadou
