President Mahama Pledges Cooperation with the Sahel States to Combat Terrorism
President John Dramani Mahama has reaffirmed his commitment to fostering strong collaboration with the Alliance of Sahel States (AES) to tackle the growing threat of terrorism within the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) bloc.
This pledge comes as West Africa faces escalating violence from extremist groups, which have destabilized governments, displaced communities, and disrupted economic activities. During his visit to Mali as part of his ‘Good Neighbourliness’ tour, President Mahama emphasized the need for a unified regional response to this pressing issue.
Strengthening Bilateral Relations for Regional Security
During his meeting with Mali’s Transitional President, General Assimi Goïta, President Mahama highlighted the importance of strengthening bilateral relations and defense cooperation. He stressed that terrorism in one country poses a threat to the entire region, making collective action essential.
“We discussed how we can strengthen our defense cooperation in the fight against terrorism and how Ghana can support the Alliance of Sahel States. Terrorism in one country is a threat to all of us,” Mahama stated.
This collaborative approach aims to enhance intelligence sharing, joint military operations, and resource mobilization to combat extremist groups effectively.
The Escalating Threat of Terrorism in West Africa
West Africa, particularly the Sahel region, has become a hotspot for terrorist activities over the past decade. Groups such as Jama’at Nasr al-Islam wal Muslimin (JNIM), the Islamic State in the Greater Sahara (ISGS), and Boko Haram have carried out numerous deadly attacks, targeting civilians, security forces, and government institutions.
Countries like Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger have borne the brunt of these attacks, experiencing large-scale massacres, kidnappings, and infrastructure destruction. For instance:
- Mali: The 2020 Ogossagou massacre claimed over 160 lives.
- Burkina Faso: The 2021 Solhan attack resulted in the deaths of over 130 people.
- Niger: The 2021 Tillabéri region attack saw over 100 civilians executed by armed groups.
These violent acts have displaced millions, disrupted governance, and hindered economic progress across the region.
A Unified Response to Terrorism
President Mahama underscored the urgent need for a coordinated regional effort to curb the spread of terrorism. He acknowledged that no ECOWAS member state is safe as long as terrorist activities persist in any part of the bloc.
“Terrorism in one country is a threat to all of us. We must work together to ensure the safety and stability of our region,” he emphasized.
This call for unity aligns with ECOWAS’s broader strategy to address security challenges through collective action and shared resources.
The Role of the Alliance of Sahel States (AES)
The Alliance of Sahel States (AES), comprising Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger, plays a critical role in combating terrorism in the region. By collaborating with AES, Ghana, and other ECOWAS members can leverage regional expertise and resources to enhance counterterrorism efforts.
President Mahama’s visit to Mali signals a renewed commitment to fostering partnerships that prioritize regional security and stability.
Why This Matters for West Africa
The fight against terrorism is not just a national issue but a regional imperative. The persistence of extremist groups threatens the socio-economic development and political stability of West Africa. By working together, ECOWAS member states can create a safer and more prosperous future for their citizens.