Mahama initiates diplomatic efforts to bridge West Africa’s growing divide
President John Mahama is taking on the challenge of easing tensions between ECOWAS and the three breakaway nations, Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso. Meeting with leaders across the region, he is pushing for dialogue and trust-building to prevent further division.
On Monday, March 10, 2025, Mahama met with Burkina Faso’s leader, Captain Ibrahim Traoré, to discuss security, trade, and the growing disconnect between ECOWAS and the Alliance of Sahel States (AES).
“It’s not going to be easy, but we have to work on restoring trust,” Mahama said. “Even if we’re not in the same regional body, we should be able to work together.”
His mission began over the weekend with visits to Mali and Niger, where he listened to their concerns and assured them that their voices would be heard. Security threats, economic partnerships, and energy supply were central to the discussions.
Accompanied by top officials, including Foreign Affairs Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, Mahama is focused on keeping the conversation alive. While bridging the divide won’t happen overnight, he remains committed to preventing deeper fractures in West Africa.
By: Linda Akite
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