Togo’s Potential Shift to the Alliance of Sahel States Amid Declining ECOWAS Influence

Togo is exploring membership with the Alliance of Sahel States, potentially diminishing ECOWAS’s influence. Foreign Minister Robert Dussey supports the strategic move, citing benefits like access to Togo’s port and enhanced regional cooperation. This shift aligns with broader pan-African ideals, but concerns arise about its implications on governance and ECOWAS’s stability. Togo’s decisions could significantly affect West Africa’s political dynamics.

Togo is considering a strategic pivot towards the Alliance of Sahel States (AES), comprising military-led nations like Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger. This shift might further diminish the influence of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), which has already seen these three nations depart. Togo’s Foreign Minister, Robert Dussey, has expressed support for the AES, indicating that membership is feasible and could enhance regional cooperation while granting member nations access to Togo’s port of Lomé.

The coastal access provided by Togo would significantly benefit the landlocked Sahel states grappling with insurgencies and economic challenges. As tensions rise between these states and ECOWAS member countries like Ivory Coast and Benin—perceived to be aligning closely with Western interests—trade routes have already begun to shift towards Togo’s ports. Political analysts believe that formalizing ties with the AES may yield economic and security advantages for Togo.

Local analyst Madi Djabakate emphasizes the potential for economic solidarity and efficient military cooperation, suggesting that Togo could enhance intelligence sharing with its neighbors. With an uptick in jihadist attacks in northern Togo—bordering Burkina Faso—aligning with the AES, which aims to establish a joint military force, could address security concerns.

Togo’s interest in the AES aligns with a broader pan-African ideology promoting unity among historically divided nations. Djabakate posits that Togo’s involvement in the AES would contribute to a united African narrative. However, Togo’s domestic political landscape influences this potential shift. President Faure Gnassingbé, who has faced criticism over his governance, may regard AES affiliation as a protective measure against regional calls for democratic reforms and adherence to human rights.

Opposition figure Nathaniel Olympio cautions that Togo’s exit from ECOWAS could have adverse repercussions, suggesting that AES membership might shield Togo’s regime from ECOWAS’s demands on governance. ECOWAS itself has experienced turmoil following the departure of the Sahelian states, as they accused the bloc of prioritizing Western agendas instead of addressing their economic and security crises.

Despite this pivot, Togo does not intend to wholly sever ties with ECOWAS. Djabakate notes that Togo may maintain dual affiliations with both organizations. However, there are warnings that Togo’s shift could further destabilize ECOWAS. Seidik Abba argues that such a move would exacerbate existing tensions and hasten the bloc’s disintegration. Togo’s forthcoming decisions will significantly influence West Africa’s political dynamics, either reinforcing ECOWAS’s tenuous unity or bolstering the emerging Sahel bloc.

In conclusion, Togo’s potential membership in the Alliance of Sahel States represents a significant shift in West African geopolitics. This move could undermine ECOWAS’s influence, amidst growing tensions between Sahelian states and ECOWAS members. Though the strategic benefits of such a realignment may seem appealing for Togo and its prospective partners, it raises concerns regarding regional stability and governance. As Togo navigates this complex political landscape, its decisions will play an essential role in shaping the future of West African cooperation and cohesion.

Original Source: www.pulse.ng