MALI, Burkina Faso, and Niger are rolling out new biometric passports as part of their withdrawal from the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), marking a major step towards solidifying their newly formed Alliance of Sahel States (AES). The biometric passports, which will not carry the ECOWAS logo, are aimed at harmonising travel within the Sahel region and enhancing mobility for citizens of the three nations.
Malian leader Assimi Goita confirmed on Sunday that the passports would be introduced in the coming days. The announcement comes as the three junta-led countries continue to distance themselves from the 15-member regional bloc following their decision in January to leave ECOWAS. Burkina Faso had already announced earlier this month the release of its new passports without ECOWAS branding.
The introduction of these new travel documents is part of a broader effort by the AES to strengthen cooperation and sovereignty in the face of mounting challenges, including insurgencies by groups linked to al Qaeda and Islamic State. ECOWAS has expressed concerns that this withdrawal could hinder the free movement of people and goods within West Africa, impacting the region’s economic stability.
Goita also revealed plans for a joint information-sharing platform to ensure seamless communication across the three nations. Despite warnings from ECOWAS, the three Sahel countries remain committed to their new alliance, prioritising regional integration and autonomy.
Credit: Africabriefing
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