Senegal's President Faye Seeks to Reintegrate Mali and Burkina Faso into ECOWAS

On May 30, 2024, Senegal's President Bassirou Diomaye Faye embarked on a visit to Mali and Burkina Faso, both of which are under military rule, with the aim of strengthening ties and potentially reintegrating them into the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS).

This visit marks Faye's tenth trip to an African state since assuming the presidency in early April. Faye, 44, was elected as Senegal's youngest president on a promise of radical change, which includes reinvigorating sub-regional integration and strengthening pan-Africanism.

Why this matters: The potential reintegration of Mali and Burkina Faso into ECOWAS could have significant implications for regional stability and cooperation in West Africa. If successful, it could pave the way for greater unity and economic integration among West African states, potentially leading to increased economic growth and development in the region.

Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger, all under military rule following coups, announced their exit from ECOWAS in January 2024. They cited French influence as a primary reason for their withdrawal and then formed the Alliance of Sahel States (AES).

Upon landing in the Malian capital, Faye headed to the presidential palace to hold talks with junta head Colonel Assimi Goita. The Senegalese presidency stated that these visits are part of a drive to strengthen the historic ties of good neighbourliness, fraternal friendship, solidarity, and multifaceted cooperation.

Ghanaian President Nana Akufo-Addo has urged Faye to use his goodwill within ECOWAS to help resolve disputes with the three states. Faye's diplomatic priorities reflect his commitment to bringing Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger back into the regional bloc.

In addition to his visit to Mali and Burkina Faso, Faye recently traveled to Guinea, where he met with General Mamady Doumbouya, who seized power in a September 2021 coup. This meeting highlights Faye's broader strategy of engaging with countries under military rule to promote stability and cooperation in the region.

Faye's efforts to strengthen ties with Mali and Burkina Faso are part of his broader vision to promote pan-Africanism and sub-regional integration. His diplomatic approach aims to address the underlying issues that led to the countries' withdrawal from ECOWAS and to pave the way for their reintegration.

As Faye continues his diplomatic endeavors, the outcomes of his visits to Mali and Burkina Faso will be closely watched. The potential reintegration of these countries into ECOWAS could signify a significant shift in the regional political environment, promoting greater unity and cooperation among West African states.

Key Takeaways

• Senegal's President Faye visits Mali and Burkina Faso to strengthen ties and promote reintegration into ECOWAS.
• Faye's 10th African trip since April, aiming to reinvigorate sub-regional integration and pan-Africanism.
• Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger exited ECOWAS in January 2024, citing French influence.
• Faye's diplomatic efforts focus on resolving disputes and promoting regional stability and cooperation.
• Successful reintegration could lead to increased economic growth and development in West Africa.