Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger Maintain Visa-Free Travel for ECOWAS Nationals
Tuesday, 17 December 2024 11:02 
(Togo First) - Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso, the members of the Alliance of Sahel States (AES), will maintain the free movement of goods and people with the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), despite their decision to leave the organization.
The AES countries announced this in a joint declaration adopted in Bamako on December 14, 2024. The declaration states, “The Confederation of Sahel States (AES) is a visa-free zone for all nationals of the member states of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS).” It further clarifies that “ECOWAS nationals have the right to enter, circulate, reside, settle and leave the territory of AES member states in compliance with national laws in force.”
This will simplify travel and trade between the two blocs, ending the uncertainty that emerged after the AES States exited ECOWAS and subsequent political and diplomatic tensions.
Economic relations between the two blocs remain strong, particularly with countries like Togo. Lomé’s port is a major entry point for goods imported into the landlocked Sahelian nations.
Commenting on the joint declaration, General Assimi Goïta, President of the Transition in Mali and the Confederation, declared: “This initiative reflects a shared ambition for economic and political integration in a global context marked by growing security and economic challenges.”
The AES countries can still deny entry to individuals they deem ineligible under their laws. However, vehicles from ECOWAS states, whether for personal or commercial use, can move freely within the AES, provided they comply with existing rules.
Togo is improving its customs connections with its northern neighbors to become a major trade hub.
Regarding their decision to exit ECOWAS, the AES countries said it is “irreversible”.
Ayi Renaud Dossavi
