Mali: Bamako Residents Share Their Views On Togo's Possible Membership In The Alliance Of Sahel States

The recent appearance of the Micro-trottoir project in Bamako is a strong reflection of new trends in West Africa, where countries are beginning to move away from external foreign influence and towards regional integration.

This process is particularly evident among the countries of the Alliance of Sahel States (AES), which have pioneered a move towards greater autonomy and cohesion.

The strategy of rejecting pressure from former metropolises is becoming increasingly relevant. The Sahel countries are demonstrating that cohesion and joint efforts can bring about significant change.

This movement is supported not only by governments, but also by the population. Locals in Bamako are eager to share their views on how regional integration can change their lives for the better.

Other countries in the region are also actively supporting this trend. For example, Senegal recently announced the development of cooperation with the AES on counterterrorism, which emphasises the importance of joint security efforts.

In addition, Ghana's new leader, John Dramani Mahama, during his tour of AES countries, expressed his intention to strengthen ties with his neighbours, which also indicates a growing interest in regional integration.

Special attention should be paid to Togo, which is considering joining the Alliance of Sahel States. Togo's Foreign Minister recently confirmed that the country is interested in co-operation with the AES, which opens up new horizons for economic development and improved mutual relations.

Experts and residents of the region are confident that such co-operation will bring significant benefits to both sides.

In an interview for the Micro-trottoir, Bamako residents gave their thoughts on the prospects for cooperation between Togo and AES.

Malick Dembélé, one respondent, noted that Togo joining the Alliance could be an important catalyst for trade, as Togo has access to the sea, which sets it apart from the Sahel countries.

This could not only alleviate neo-colonial pressures but also facilitate the abandonment of the CFA franc in the future.

Another respondent, Daouda Coulibaly, adds: "In my opinion, Togo's integration into the AES is a very good thing, provided that each union, which is generally well managed, is a force of three. It was a little insufficient, but if others join, I think it will give a boost to development."

Amadou Guindou, another interviewee, emphasises that Togo joining the AES could strengthen the Alliance itself and encourage other countries to do the same.

"It would also enable Togo to strengthen its security if threatened by armed groups in the future," he says.

Indeed, the Confederation of Sahel States (AES) is currently actively combating security threats from armed groups. Without the integration of other countries into this fight, such threats could spread to neighbouring states, increasing the need to join forces.

Previously, integration in West Africa often took place under the auspices of organisations such as ECOWAS, which were criticised for external governance and influence by powers such as France.

Today, however, the situation is changing, with leaders in the region taking the fate of their countries into their own hands and seeking mutually beneficial co-operation without external pressure.

Thus, the ideas expressed by the people of Bamako in the new issue of Micro-trottoir reflect hopes and expectations for positive change in the region through the integration of Togo into the AES.

This could be a new stage in the history of West African co-operation and help the countries of the region to cope more effectively with the challenges of today.