Togo eyes AES as France watches its influence fade in West Africa

Togo is considering joining the Alliance of Sahel States (AES), signalling a potential shift in the region’s security dynamics and marking a further decline in France’s influence across West Africa.

When asked about the possibility of joining the AES, Togo’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Robert Dussey, remarked, “The decision lies with the President of the Republic,” adding that it is “not impossible", Caliber.Az reports referring to Military Africa.

He also suggested that Togolese citizens would likely be in favour of such a move, emphasizing public support for the idea.

This development comes amid a broader regional trend, where countries like Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso, all under military governments opposed to France, have announced their withdrawal from the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS). These nations accuse ECOWAS of being a tool for French interests and influence.

The political shift gained further momentum following the 2023 military coup in Niger, which led to France’s withdrawal from its uranium mines and military bases in the country. France initially argued that its departure would harm counter-terrorism efforts in the region. However, Niger’s actions soon prompted similar moves by Mali and Burkina Faso, with all three nations expelling French forces in protest of France’s longstanding role in regional affairs.

Across the Sahel, there’s been a growing trend of distancing from France and the West in favor of building ties with Russia and China. In response to their dissatisfaction with French influence, these countries formed the AES, an alliance that now seeks to reshape the region's security and political frameworks.

In line with this shift, Niger's Defense Minister, Salifou Mody, announced plans for the creation of a 5,000-strong joint military force among AES members, aimed at tackling regional security challenges. This force is expected to be operational soon, marking a bold challenge to France’s counter-terrorism narrative.

France has expressed its concerns about Togo’s potential AES membership, with some French media outlets highlighting the country’s human rights and democratic record. They suggested that joining the alliance could present challenges for Togo on the international stage.

This growing trend of AES expansion represents a significant geopolitical shift in Africa, as more nations question France’s historic dominance and pursue new alliances. Meanwhile, France is planning to reduce its military presence in West and Central Africa, in line with President Emmanuel Macron’s strategy to scale back French military operations across the continent.

Under this plan, France will cut its military personnel in the region, reducing forces in countries like Gabon, Senegal, Ivory Coast, and Chad. These changes reflect the broader rethinking of France's role in Africa, with the potential for troop levels to be adjusted in response to the needs of local governments.

By Tamilla Hasanova