REPORTER'S NOTEBOOKFeatures|PoliticsA marriage of three: Will Mali, Niger, Burkina Faso bloc reshape the Sahel?Since withdrawing from ECOWAS, the post-coup countries have inaugurated a new bank, TV station and joint military force.
## Geopolitical Developments in the Sahel Region
Geopolitical Developments in the Sahel Region
Formation of the Alliance of Sahel States (AES)
In September 2023, Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger, all under military leadership, established the Alliance of Sahel States (AES) . This coalition marks a realignment of regional alliances, with the countries exiting the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) due to perceived foreign influence.
The Confederal Summit of Heads of State of the AES took place in December 2025 in Bamako. Key outcomes included the inauguration of a Sahel Investment and Development Bank, a new regional television channel, and a joint military force intended to address cross-border armed group threats.
Armed groups such as Jama’at Nusrat al-Islam wal-Muslimin (JNIM), linked to al-Qaeda, have expanded operations across the region, exploiting political instability and weak state presence. Recent activities include blockades affecting fuel and goods supply to Bamako.
Following military coups in the region, ties with France have been severed, with a shift towards cooperation with Russian mercenaries. French troops have been withdrawn, and French media banned, indicating a significant geopolitical shift.
In September 2023, Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger, all under military leadership, established the Alliance of Sahel States (AES) .
Between 2020 and 2023, military takeovers in these three countries led to the formation of the AES. The alliance aims to strengthen regional security and reduce dependency on Western nations, emphasizing self-determination.
Establishment of a Sahel Investment and Development Bank to finance infrastructure projects without Western financial involvement. Creation of a regional television channel to promote a unified narrative for the Sahel region. Formation of a joint military battalion to counter armed groups across the Sahel, with support from Russian mercenaries.
Plans include the establishment of a Sahel penal court and discussions around a common currency, reflecting the AES's commitment to building independent regional structures.
Based on reporting by Al Jazeera.
