In a bold shift toward economic sovereignty, Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger are deepening their Alliance of Sahel States (AES) with moves that go beyond security and into transformative regional integration. Since leaving ECOWAS, AES has eliminated mobile roaming fees within member territories, introduced a unified customs duty on non-member countries, and launched a joint passport. Most notably, it has also established a new development bank with $863.9 million in capital, laying the groundwork for future infrastructure and industrial investment. Now, a common currency is under consideration, signaling a deeper break from the CFA franc. While ambitious, success will hinge on strategic partnerships, strong governance, and a unified vision.
Africanews
