Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger are preparing to launch a new biometric passport system, as announced by Mali’s military leader, Colonel Assimi Goita. This initiative is part of a broader strategy to reinforce the alliance among these nations, which have been increasingly isolating themselves from traditional regional frameworks following their departure from the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS).
Since 2020, the three Sahelian countries have been under military rule following a series of coups. In response to these changes, they formed the Alliance of Sahel States (AES) in September 2023, shifting their geopolitical orientation from former colonial power France to Russia. This realignment was accompanied by a strategic withdrawal from ECOWAS in January 2024, which they criticized for being influenced by French interests.
In July 2024, the trio further cemented their collaboration by establishing the Confederation of Sahel States. This new entity, chaired by Mali for its inaugural year, brings together approximately 72 million people across the region. The confederation aims to enhance regional integration and address shared challenges.
Colonel Goita’s recent announcement highlights that the AES will soon issue a new biometric passport to standardize travel documents across member states. This move is intended to simplify and streamline cross-border travel within the region, promoting greater cohesion among the countries.
Additionally, Goita emphasized ongoing efforts to improve regional infrastructure, including advancements in transportation, communication networks, and information technology. These developments are seen as crucial for enhancing connectivity and fostering economic growth within the Sahel.
The timing of this announcement, just before the first anniversary of the AES, underscores the significance of the alliance’s formation. The three countries are contending with severe jihadi violence that began in northern Mali in 2012 and has since spread to Niger and Burkina Faso. This conflict has led to thousands of deaths and displaced millions, presenting a major challenge to regional stability and security.
