Togo steps up as mediator in Sahel security and diplomacy

Togo unveils regional strategy to strengthen Sahel stability

Lomé hosts a landmark meeting to shape a new path for Sahel security and cooperation. The gathering, held on Saturday, brought together leaders from the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), the Alliance of Sahel States (AES), and key international partners including France and the European Union.

The event marked the official launch of Togo’s 2026-2028 Sahel strategy, a forward-looking initiative designed to restore dialogue and trust across the region. Central to the strategy is Togo’s role as a neutral mediator, helping bridge divides between the Sahel bloc and Western allies.

Togo’s five-pillar plan for regional security and integration

The strategy is built on five core components:

• Political dialogue with AES countries: Reopening channels with Mali, Niger and Burkina Faso, whose governments have shifted alliances in recent years, prioritizing partnerships with Russia over Western engagement.
• Enhanced regional cooperation: Strengthening coordination among Sahel nations to counter shared security threats.
• Counter-terrorism efforts: Addressing the growing menace of jihadist groups linked to Al-Qaeda and ISIS, which have intensified attacks across vast areas of the Sahel.
• Economic integration: Promoting trade, infrastructure and development to foster long-term stability.
• International alignment: Fostering constructive engagement with global partners to support sustainable peace.

During the meeting, Togolese Foreign Minister Robert Dussey emphasized Togo’s readiness to leverage its diplomatic influence and regional presence: “Togo stands prepared to offer its mediation expertise and strategic position as a conduit for dialogue between the Sahel and the international community.”

Sahel leaders voice support for Togo’s initiative

Representatives from the Alliance of Sahel States welcomed the proposal, signaling openness to collaboration. Abdoulaye Diop, Mali’s Foreign Minister, highlighted a key condition for cooperation: “Security in the region demands an end to foreign forces operating within our borders, particularly those whose actions undermine the sovereignty of neighboring states.”

The call reflects growing tensions over external military presence in the Sahel, especially amid rising jihadist violence. Militant groups have escalated attacks, claiming thousands of lives and destabilizing large parts of Mali, Niger and Burkina Faso — with spillover threats reaching coastal nations like Togo and Benin.

As the Sahel grapples with escalating insecurity, Togo’s proactive stance positions it as a potential linchpin for restoring regional stability and fostering renewed partnerships.