Mali, Burkina Faso and Niger announced immediate withdrawal from ECOWAS
In January 2024, the military-led governments of Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger announced their immediate withdrawal from the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS). This decision was driven by their dissatisfaction with ECOWAS's "inhumane" sanctions and its perceived failure to address escalating security challenges in the Sahel region.
Following their departure, the three nations established the Alliance of Sahel States (AES), a confederation aimed at enhancing cooperation in foreign policy, security, and economic development. The AES seeks to ensure the free movement of people and goods and plans to create a joint investment bank.
In response to the withdrawal, ECOWAS approved a transitional timeline for the exit of these countries, spanning from January 29 to July 29, 2025. During this period, ECOWAS intends to keep channels open for dialogue and mediation.
The departure of Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger from ECOWAS marks a significant shift in West African regional dynamics, reflecting deepening divides over governance and security strategies.
Discover More
Field Security Update Eastern DRC: Destruction of Suspected ADF/ISCAP Command and Logistics Camp – Mambasa Sector
Joint FARDC–UPDF operations conducted on 22 February 2026 reportedly led to the destruction of a strategically significant camp assessed to have been linked to the leadership and logistics structure of the Allied Democratic Forces / Islamic State Central Africa Province (ADF/ISCAP).
U.S. Sanctions on Rwanda Signal Strategic Rupture but Fail to Alter Battlefield Dynamics
The United States’ decision to impose sanctions on Rwanda’s military leadership marks the most direct and severe diplomatic rebuke Washington has issued against Kigali in the post-genocide era. Yet despite the symbolic weight of the measures, the sanctions have not altered the operational reality on the ground in eastern DRC.
REQUEST FOR INTEREST
How can we help you de-risk Africa?
Please enter your contact information and your requirements and needs for us to come back to you with a relevant proposal.
