AES in 2024: 'We Cannot Pretend to Be Independent with CFA Franc,' Malian Analyst Declares

The formation of the Alliance of Sahel states is a groundbreaking shift in African history, one that could alter the geopolitical landscape of the continent, Dr. Adama Diabaté, an Adviser to the President of Mali and a Political analyst, tells the host of Global South Pole.

“They know this marks the beginning of the end of Western dominance in Africa and, by extension, the world.” He argues that Western countries have historically benefited from exploiting African resources while portraying African nations as incapable and dependent. “The AES says no more. We’re moving forward, reclaiming our sovereignty and independence,” Diabaté asserts.

Central to the alliance's success is the leadership of Mali's Assimi Goïta, who played a pivotal role in the creation of the AES. Dr. Diabaté highlights Goïta's military background and strategic vision.

“At just 41 years old, he’s demonstrated extraordinary boldness and determination. His success in ousting French influence in Mali inspired Burkina Faso and Niger to follow suit. His leadership is symbolic of the determination and courage that African nations need to reclaim their sovereignty,” he stresses.

Economic sovereignty is another cornerstone of the AES’s vision. Dr. Diabaté emphasizes the importance of the alliance's investment bank and stabilization fund, which aim to harmonize economic activities across the three countries.

“This bank will finance critical infrastructure projects, like telecommunications and transportation, to increase trade within the AES. Greater economic integration is essential for creating a strong common currency and finally moving away from the CFA franc,” he explains.

Security remains a pressing challenge for the Sahel, but the AES has already made strides. The joint military command has proven effective in coordinating efforts against terrorism, an issue exacerbated by external interference. Dr. Diabaté attributes much of this success to the alliance's growing partnership with Russia.

“Our cooperation with Russia is very fruitful. Now, Russia has signed with all three countries individually on a lot of programs in this sphere of energy, like small atomic stations that will be providing civil energy. And we are now on the program to send a satellite that would permit us to make communication. But our countries will have the control, contrary to the situation we were living in, where Western operators were here operating under the command of the Secret Service of their country of origin, a situation that does not comfort us,” he remarks.

Looking forward to 2025, Dr. Diabaté called for accelerated decision-making within the AES to counter external pressures.

“Our enemies won’t rest, so neither can we. The AES isn’t just for Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger; it’s a model for all of Africa and the African diaspora. Its success will symbolize true liberation for our continent and our people worldwide,” he advocates.

To find out what else our guest had to say, tune in to the Global South Pole podcast, brought to you by Sputnik Africa.

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