LOME, April 20 (Xinhua) -- African scholars and civil society groups have hailed the launch of Togo's new 2026-2028 Sahel Strategy, according to a statement issued on Monday by the Presidency of the Council of Togo.
According to the statement, Franklin Nyamsi, director of the Institute of Africa's Liberties, hailed Togo's diplomatic approach as a model for inclusive African dialogue on pressing regional challenges.
He highlighted the importance of a shared-responsibility framework in addressing terrorism and strengthening long-term cooperation.
Bassolma Bazie, president of the National Commission of the Confederation of Sahel States, conveyed messages of solidarity and fraternity from leaders of the Alliance of Sahel States (AES), commending Togo's engagement in fostering dialogue around regional priorities.
Bakary Sambe, president of the Timbuktu Institute - African Center for Peace Studies, noted that Togo's initiative provides a platform for closer collaboration between policymakers and researchers in addressing security and development challenges across West Africa.
The new 2026-2028 strategy aims to take into account geopolitical and security changes in the region, replacing the one adopted in 2021. It is structured around five pillars, including political dialogue with the AES, regional and international cooperation, the fight against terrorism, and the strengthening of regional economic integration.
In September 2023, Niger, Mali, and Burkina Faso signed the Liptako-Gourma Charter in Bamako, the capital of Mali, agreeing to establish the AES.
On July 6, 2024, the three countries announced the creation of the Confederation of the AES in Niamey, marking a significant step toward establishing an economic-military bloc. ■
