Ghana’s President John Mahama has pledged to restore trust between the Alliance of Sahel States (AES) and ECOWAS amid growing regional tensions. During a visit to Mali on Saturday, Mahama met with Malian leader Col. Assimi Goita to discuss security, economic cooperation, and efforts to mend relations between the two blocs. His trip comes as AES—comprising Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger, faces a diplomatic standoff with ECOWAS following its decision to withdraw from the regional body.
Ghanaian President John Dramani Mahama arrived in Mali on Saturday for a one-day visit, meeting with Malian leader Assimi Goita to discuss regional security, economic cooperation, and the strained relationship between the Alliance of Sahel States (AES) and the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) during his sahel Tour over the weekend.
Speaking in Bamako, Mahama acknowledged a « breakdown in trust » between the two blocs and pledged to work towards reconciliation. « We will do everything possible to restore this trust, » he stated.
Discussions between the two leaders centered on strengthening bilateral ties, particularly economic exchanges and the role of the Malian diaspora in Ghana. They also addressed trade facilitation along the southern corridor, emphasizing the need to improve infrastructure and streamline customs procedures. Additionally, both sides agreed to revive their joint cooperation commission, which last convened in 2011.
Security concerns, including counterterrorism efforts, were another key topic.
Tensions between AES—comprising Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger—and ECOWAS have intensified since the three nations announced their withdrawal from the regional bloc in response to sanctions imposed on their military-led governments. While AES was formed in July 2024, ECOWAS has since extended a grace period for the countries to reconsider their exit. Numerous pundits believe it would be beneficial for AES to reintegrate the ECOWAS bloc for economic reasons and their presence could lead to a shift or reform within the regional institution.
Following his visit to Mali, Mahama traveled to neighboring Niger as part of his diplomatic efforts.
It should be noted that he made a tour to Burkina Faso.
