A gathering of thousands from the junta-led nations in Africa’s Sahel region took place in Niamey, Niger, this week. The event, marked by music and cultural displays, aimed to denounce Western imperialism and bolster support for the military regimes.
Delegates from Niger, Burkina Faso, and Mali participated in the three-day conference. The junta leaders of these nations, who ousted democratically elected governments, have severed ties with Western partners like France. They now seek closer relations with Russia.
The three nations are nearing the end of their withdrawal process from the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS). They accuse the bloc of being influenced by France and of failing to address extremist violence in the region.
The conference, attended by pro-junta youth, women, civil society groups, and allies from across West Africa, focused on national sovereignty and economic and security partnerships within the Alliance of Sahel States (AES).
Music and cultural performances were a major highlight of the event. Nigerien artist Idi Sarki’s performance, which referenced the 2023 coup, stirred the crowd. He expressed discontent with the presence of French troops and called for energy and economic sovereignty.
A women’s music group performed a song dedicated to African youth, emphasizing their role in the fight for hope and freedom.
The junta leaders have promised to address issues such as violence and economic hardship. However, these problems persist, and in some cases, have worsened.
Despite challenges, some attendees expressed optimism about the military’s ability to deliver democratic dividends. Ali Moussa from Gabon argued that democratic processes are insufficient in the face of pressing issues like education.
Inem Richardson, a representative from Burkina Faso, called for African unity and greater citizen engagement in the fight against imperialism.