The Republic of Niger is making its voice heard in ongoing discussions about the future of the United Nations Office for West Africa and the Sahel (UNOWAS). In Niamey, Dr. Mamoudou Harouna Djingarey, Chair of the National Advisory Council for Refoundation (CCR), met with former Ethiopian President Sahle-Work Zewde, who is leading an independent strategic review of the UN office. This meeting comes at a time of shifting dynamics between Sahelian states and international institutions.

The strategic review aims to assess how UNOWAS can better adapt to the rapidly changing realities of the Sahel, a region facing deep-rooted security, political, humanitarian, and development crises. The discussions in Niamey are part of a broader consultation process involving multiple countries in West Africa and the Sahel.

Niger’s vision for sovereignty and regional stability

During the meeting, Dr. Djingarey outlined the CCR’s guiding principles, emphasizing national sovereignty, social cohesion, and sustainable peace. These priorities, he noted, are critical not only for Niger but also for addressing the broader challenges facing the Sahel. The conversation covered key themes such as governance, regional stability, conflict prevention, and mechanisms for West African and Sahelian cooperation.

UNOWAS review seeks to align with regional transformations

The visit by Sahle-Work Zewde is part of an independent strategic review tasked with evaluating the effectiveness of UNOWAS’s mandate. The goal is to recommend adjustments that align the office’s missions with the evolving needs of a region grappling with rising security threats, political transitions, humanitarian emergencies, and developmental demands.

Following the discussion, the former Ethiopian leader commended Niger’s leadership for its openness and the substance of the dialogue. The insights gathered from national institutions will directly inform the strategic review’s conclusions and shape the future direction of UNOWAS.

Strengthening international partnerships with sovereignty at the core

This meeting underscores Niger’s commitment to engaging with global partners while upholding its national sovereignty. For the CCR, international cooperation is valuable only when it respects the country’s autonomy and the decisions made by its leadership. The discussion also included Abdou Moustapha, General Rapporteur of the CCR, highlighting the depth of the exchange.

The strategic review’s findings are expected to play a pivotal role in redefining UNOWAS’s role in response to the profound shifts reshaping the Sahel. These consultations mark a significant step in aligning the UN’s efforts with the region’s pressing needs.