Sahel summit: What is the biggest challenge facing the region?

"Sahel countries launch a joint battalion to fight armed groups as they boost ties with Russia amid vulnerable security situation. Mali, Burkina Faso and Niger have announced the launch of a joint military battalion aimed at fighting armed groups across the Sahel, one of Africa's poorest and most volatile regions. The initiative was announced at the end of the two-day Alliance of Sahel States (AES) summit in the Malian capital, Bamako, as the three countries struggle to improve the security situation amid rising attacks from separatist groups as well as armed groups linked to al-Qaeda and ISIL (ISIS)."

"They agreed to launch a joint battalion, which is expected to comprise an estimated 5,000 soldiers from the three countries, with a mandate centred on counterterrorism and border security. Burkina Faso leader Ibrahim Traore, who was named the head of the alliance, announced large-scale joint operations against armed groups in the coming days. Moreover, the three leaders also jointly launched the AES Television, described in official communications as an instrument to counter disinformation and promote the region's narrative."

"General Omar Tchiani, leader of Niger's military government, said the AES had put an end to all occupation forces in our countries. No country or interest group will decide for our countries any more, he said. The military leaders of the three nations in recent years kicked out longtime security partners France and the United States. Thousands of French soldiers were stationed in several African nations, including the three Sahel countries"

Mali, Burkina Faso and Niger announced the launch of a joint military battalion intended to fight armed groups across the Sahel. The battalion is expected to number about 5,000 soldiers and will focus on counterterrorism and border security. The leaders, meeting at the Alliance of Sahel States summit in Bamako, named Ibrahim Traore as alliance head and pledged large-scale joint operations. The three leaders also launched AES Television to counter disinformation and promote the region's narrative. Military leaders declared the end of foreign occupation forces and have expelled longtime partners France and the United States in recent years.

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