Ghana's President John Mahama has begun a tour of three African countries, namely Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger, which constitute the Alliance of Sahel States (AES). The visit aims to promote collaboration and mend the rift in West Africa, particularly in the wake of the three countries' decision to exit the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) earlier this year.

During his trip, President Mahama met with his counterparts in Mali and Niger, discussing bilateral trade, security, and the implications of their exit from ECOWAS. The Ghanaian president emphasized the need for greater collaboration to combat terrorism, which poses a threat not only to the Sahel region but also to countries further down towards the coast.

In a significant development, some Ghanaians living in Niger's capital, Niamey, expressed their support for the AES and hopes to join the alliance to support Africa. This sentiment was revealed through interviews conducted by Russian media outlet Sputnik. The Ghanaians residing in Niger emphasized their desire to strengthen ties with the AES countries, citing their shared African identity.

The AES, comprising Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger, formally left ECOWAS on January 29, 2025, citing the bloc's subservience to former colonial powers and its inability to support their counter-terrorism efforts. The move has raised concerns about the future of regional cooperation in West Africa.

President Mahama's initiative to engage with the AES countries is seen as a crucial step towards promoting regional stability and security. Ghana's efforts to mend the rift in West Africa could have far-reaching implications for the region's economic and political landscape.

The development also highlights the growing importance of regional blocs in Africa, as countries seek to strengthen their economic and security ties. The AES, in particular, has emerged as a significant player in the Sahel region, with its member states seeking to address the pressing issues of terrorism and economic development.

As Ghana explores the possibility of joining the AES, the move could have significant implications for the country's foreign policy and regional engagement. The development is likely to be closely watched by other West African countries, as they navigate the complex landscape of regional cooperation and security challenges.

In conclusion, President Mahama's tour of the AES countries marks an important step towards promoting regional cooperation and security in West Africa. The expression of interest by some Ghanaians to join the AES highlights the growing desire for African countries to strengthen their ties and address common challenges. As the region navigates the complexities of regional integration and security, Ghana's initiative could prove to be a significant catalyst for positive change.