The Togo has recently unveiled a fresh approach to its Sahel policy, positioning itself as a potential bridge-builder between West African nations facing jihadist threats and the international community. Speaking on April 18, Togo‘s Foreign Minister Robert Dussey emphasized the urgency of this strategy, noting that the Sahel has become a hotspot for terrorist violence threatening regional stability.

According to Dussey, this marks the second phase of Togo‘s Sahel strategy, designed to address the escalating security crisis. The first phase, while not solving the crisis, bought valuable time for Togo to bolster its defenses and prevent further deterioration in the region.

Three pillars of Togo’s Sahel security strategy

The updated strategy rests on three key pillars:

• Regional collaboration: Strengthening partnerships to maintain peace and stability in the Sahel.
• Peace facilitation: Taking a proactive role in creating conditions conducive to lasting peace.
• Political normalization support: Assisting post-coup governments in restoring democratic governance.

Jean Emmanuel Gnagnon, a researcher at the University of Lomé specializing in state governance and crisis management, acknowledges Togo‘s progress:

“Togo has managed to curb the southward advance of armed groups and prevent the deep-rooted establishment of terrorist cells on its soil. Its efforts have also enhanced the country’s security presence in the subregion. Compared to neighboring states, the spillover effect has been relatively limited in Togo.”

However, Gnagnon admits that while previous phases delayed further escalation, they did not resolve the crisis entirely, giving Togo additional breathing room to strengthen its security infrastructure.

Mixed reviews from regional experts

Madji Diabakaté, a political scientist, offers a more critical perspective on Togo‘s diplomatic role:

“The enthusiasm of Togolese diplomacy in the Sahel resembles the tale of a frog trying to match the size of an ox. When coups occurred, two critical issues emerged: insecurity and the restoration of democracy. Neither has seen meaningful progress. Instead, Togo’s involvement has weakened the ECOWAS by supporting regimes that triggered the crisis.”

Public opinion within Togo also reflects skepticism, with many citizens urging their government to prioritize domestic political stability before extending support to neighboring countries.

Despite the criticism, Foreign Minister Robert Dussey maintains that Togo maintains “constructive relationships with regional and international partners, prioritizing shared interests.”