Alliance of Sahel States regional cooperation

The Alliance of Sahel States (AES), consisting of Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger, is pursuing initiatives to strengthen regional sovereignty and cooperation across several strategic sectors.

In mid-August 2026, health experts met in Ouagadougou to establish frameworks for medical sovereignty. The discussions focused on epidemiological surveillance, pharmaceutical regulation, and collective medicine procurement to reduce dependence on external supply chains. Officials aim to finalize these strategic frameworks by November 2026.

Efforts to bolster regional autonomy have expanded to include economic and resource management. In late August 2026, high-ranking officials met in Niamey to review the Confederation’s second year of activities, recommending a budgeted roadmap to ensure the effective implementation of planned actions.

Regarding political transitions, the AES has defended its position on delayed elections to UN Special Envoy Sahle-Work Zewde. Burkina Faso’s Foreign Minister, Karamoko Jean Marie Traoré, argued that “security imperatives and the fight against jihadist groups must take precedence over electoral timelines,” noting that transitions in Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger have been extended to prioritize national defense.

To enhance cooperation in vital sectors, the 8th edition of the West African Mining Week (SAMAO) and the inaugural Energy, Mines, and Hydrocarbons Week of the AES (SEMH-AES) are scheduled for September 14–19, 2026, in Ouagadougou. These events aim to address the governance of extractive resources, geopolitical challenges, and regional cooperation.