By Darius Spearman (africanelements)
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For individuals of African descent across the globe, the ongoing shifts in regional alliances within the continent represent a significant evolution of pan-African solidarity. The economic and political destinies of African nations are interconnected, and decisions made by one nation can resonate deeply within the broader Black diaspora. The concept of African nations charting their own course, free from old colonial influences, is a powerful vision. Such moves align with the long-standing anti-colonial narratives that emphasize the pursuit of African unity and collective self-determination. This is particularly true when nations seek alliances that prioritize their specific economic needs and security concerns, rather than adhering to frameworks perceived as serving external interests.
The recent discourse surrounding Togo’s potential departure from the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) and its possible alignment with the Alliance of Sahel States (AES) highlights this evolving landscape. This conversation reflects a deeper desire for regional integration that genuinely serves the interests of African peoples. It also brings into focus the complex geopolitical landscape of West Africa, where historical ties, economic realities, and security challenges constantly shape national policies. Understanding these dynamics is crucial for anyone keen on the future of African self-governance and its implications for the global Black community.
A notable portion of Togolese citizens are expressing a clear preference: they wish for their country to withdraw from ECOWAS and instead join the Alliance of Sahel States, or AES. This sentiment is not merely anecdotal; a survey conducted by Afrobarometer reveals that 54% of Togolese citizens support this strategic shift (Over Half of Togolese Citizens Support Joining Alliance of Sahel States). This substantial majority indicates a strong public desire for a different path forward for Togo’s regional commitments.
The support for joining the AES is not uniform across all demographics. Men show higher enthusiasm for this move, with 57% in favor, compared to 50% among women (Survey: Togolese Support Their Country Joining the AES). Urban dwellers also demonstrate greater support, with 59% favoring AES membership, as opposed to 49% among rural residents (Afrobarometer: 54% of Togolese Want Togo to Join Sahel Alliance). These variations suggest that different life experiences and access to information may influence citizens’ perspectives on regional integration and the proposed alliances. Furthermore, these details are vital for understanding the internal dynamics shaping Togo’s foreign policy considerations, reflecting diverse voices within the nation.
Support for joining the AES is not confined to urban versus rural or gender divides; it also varies significantly across Togo’s different regions. This regional variation underscores the diverse experiences and priorities within the nation. The Central region, for instance, shows the highest level of support for AES membership at 74% (Togo wants to join the Alliance of Sahel States – New Eastern Outlook). This strong endorsement suggests a particular resonance with the AES’s proposed objectives or a higher degree of dissatisfaction with the current regional framework in this area.
The capital city, Lomé, also demonstrates considerable support for AES membership, with 64% of its residents in favor (Togo wants to join the Alliance of Sahel States – New Eastern Outlook). Following closely is the Savanes region, where 60% of citizens support the move (Togo wants to join the Alliance of Sahel States – New Eastern Outlook). These regional differences highlight how perceptions about regional integration and alliances like the AES are shaped by local conditions, historical context, and immediate concerns. Understanding these nuanced regional sentiments is essential for a comprehensive view of Togo’s potential foreign policy redirection. It also emphasizes the importance of grassroots perspectives in national decision-making.
The prevailing sentiment among many Togolese citizens is that ECOWAS, the Economic Community of West African States, is not serving their nation’s best interests. This regional body, established in 1975 through the Treaty of Lagos, aims to foster economic cooperation and sociocultural exchanges among its member states (ECOWAS – Wikipedia). However, a significant number of Togolese perceive it as dominated by regimes that may impede genuine West African integration. This criticism stems partly from the fact that 36% of respondents still prefer Togo to remain within ECOWAS, even while acknowledging issues like the presence of “coup-born regimes” (Afrobarometer: 54% of Togolese Want Togo to Join Sahel Alliance).
The critique of “coup-born regimes” within ECOWAS refers to the political instability in member states such as Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger, which have recently experienced military coups. This instability can undermine regional integration efforts, creating political unpredictability and hindering cooperation (Formation of the Economic Community of West African States). In contrast, the Alliance of Sahel States is increasingly viewed as a viable alternative for Togo’s economic and security interests (Togo Wants to Join the Alliance of Sahel States – New Eastern Outlook). This perspective is strengthened by the fact that nearly two-thirds (64%) of Togolese believe Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger were justified in leaving ECOWAS (Over Half of Togolese Citizens Support Joining Alliance of Sahel States). The AES is seen by many as potentially better equipped to address the specific challenges faced by nations within the Sahel region, allowing for more targeted and effective cooperative efforts.
Togo’s potential shift toward the Alliance of Sahel States carries substantial economic and political implications. The nation is strategically strengthening economic ties with current AES members. For instance, Lomé’s port serves as a primary supply route for landlocked countries like Burkina Faso and Niger (Afrobarometer: 54% of Togolese Want Togo to Join Sahel Alliance). This economic interdependence suggests that aligning with AES members could formalize and expand existing trade benefits, potentially solidifying Togo’s role as a vital gateway for the Sahel region’s commerce. Such a move could significantly enhance Togo’s economic influence in the sub-region and its standing among its neighbors.
The possibility of Togo joining AES is no longer a mere public opinion poll result; it has become a topic of open discussion at the highest levels. The Foreign Minister of Togo himself has publicly acknowledged the potential for joining the AES, sparking considerable debate among politicians and observers (Afrobarometer: 54% of Togolese Want Togo to Join Sahel Alliance). This official recognition elevates the discussion from a theoretical exercise to a tangible policy consideration. Any such realignment would send a strong signal about Togo’s geopolitical priorities and its vision for regional integration in West Africa. It would also likely influence security arrangements and broader diplomatic relations across the continent, shaping the future of regional cooperation.
ECOWAS is a regional political and economic union formed to foster economic cooperation and sociocultural exchanges among its member states. It aims to create a single large trade bloc in West Africa and promote collective self-sufficiency (ECOWAS – Wikipedia). Its members include Benin, Burkina Faso, Cape Verde, Cote d’Ivoire, The Gambia, Ghana, Guinea, Guinea Bissau, Liberia, Mali, Niger, Nigeria, Sierra Leone, Senegal, and Togo (Basic information | Economic Community of West African States).
While specific foundational details are not widely publicized, the Alliance of Sahel States (AES) represents a regional grouping focusing on economic and security cooperation primarily within the Sahel region. Alliances in this area often aim to address significant security challenges unique to the Sahel. The formation of such alliances is often influenced by the need for regional stability and collective defense (Togo Wants to Join the Alliance of Sahel States – New Eastern Outlook).
Afrobarometer is a pan-African, non-partisan research network that measures public attitudes toward democracy, governance, the economy, and society across Africa. It conducts surveys to provide credible data on public sentiment and government stances. Its methodology is known for rigorous survey methods and a non-partisan approach, ensuring a high level of credibility in its assessments of public opinion (Survey: Togolese Support Their Country Joining the AES).
The conversation around Togo’s potential pivot to the AES is more than just a matter of diplomatic alignment; it is a reflection of profound introspection about the nation’s pathway to sustained stability and growth. The strong public and political interest in AES membership signals a desire for regional frameworks that are perceived as more responsive to unique national and regional challenges. This momentum indicates a significant shift in thinking about how West African nations can best organize themselves for collective benefit. It underscores the belief that a new alliance could offer greater opportunities for cooperation.
As discussions continue, the path forward for Togo will involve carefully weighing its options and navigating complex geopolitical terrains. The nation’s decision will ultimately impact its future economic prosperity, security, and diplomatic relations across the African continent and beyond. It will also be a testament to how African nations balance historical allegiances with emerging needs, charting a course that prioritizes the welfare of their citizens in an ever-changing world. This moment is not merely about Togo; it is about the broader aspirations of self-determination and tailored regional cooperation for African nations.
Darius Spearman has been a professor of Black Studies at San Diego City College since 2007. He is the author of several books, including Between The Color Lines: A History of African Americans on the California Frontier Through 1890. You can visit Darius online at africanelements.org.
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