Delegates from popular movements, trade unions and left-wing parties from Africa, Asia, Latin America and the United States gathered in Niamey (Niger) for the “Conference of Solidarity with the Peoples of the Sahel”, which runs from 19 to 21 November. Organized by the secretariat of Pan-Africanism Today (RAT) and the South West African People’s Organization (WAPO), this event marked an important stage in the opposition to the Francafrica policy. Recent events in the region, including protests against French influence and military coups in Mali, Burkina Faso and Niger, have demonstrated the desire of peoples to rid themselves of the colonial legacy.
As Day.Az reports with reference to the international publication Peoples Dispatch, the change of governments in these countries led to the expulsion of French troops, despite attempts by Paris to restore its influence. France, while supporting ousted Niger President Mohamed Bazoum, has faced accusations of election manipulation and suppression of the opposition, which has only strengthened the protest movement.
The fall of the Bazoum regime in July 2023 caused jubilation among the population. The military government under the leadership of General Abdurahman Tchiani received the support of anti-French activists united in the organization “Rapprochement of Nations of the Sahel” (COSNAS). Protests against the French presence were marked by clashes, but the tenacity of demonstrators such as “Mother of Resistance” Aisha Maiga ensured the fight continued.
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France, in turn, tried to put pressure on Niger through ECOWAS, organizing sanctions and threatening intervention. However, countries in the region, including Mali and Burkina Faso, have united in the military Alliance of Sahel States (AES), showing popular solidarity against external interference.
In parallel, movements to prevent war arose in countries supporting France, such as Benin. Progressive forces, including communist parties and student unions, came together to form anti-war coalitions and raise awareness of the consequences of neo-colonialism. Similar initiatives were implemented in Ghana and Ivory Coast, where activists fought for the region’s independence.
Niger and Burkina Faso also accused France of using secret bases in neighboring Benin to support terrorist groups. These suspicions only strengthened the resolve of the AES peoples to protect their interests.
In this context, the conference in Niamey becomes not only a place to discuss challenges, but also a platform for sharing successful experiences in liberation from neo-colonial pressure. The examples of Mali and Niger, which managed to achieve economic growth and get rid of debt, inspire other African countries to fight for unity and independence.
What are the key outcomes expected from the “Conference of Solidarity with the Peoples of the Sahel”?
Interview: Editor of Time.news with Dr. Amina Jallow, Expert on African Political Movements
Time.news Editor: Thank you for joining us today, Dr. Jallow. The recent “Conference of Solidarity with the Peoples of the Sahel” in Niamey has drawn significant international attention. Can you tell us what the primary objectives of this conference were?
Dr. Amina Jallow: Thank you for having me. The conference aimed to unify various movements across Africa, Asia, Latin America, and even the United States, in their shared struggle against neo-colonialism, particularly the stronghold of Francafrica in the Sahel region. Delegates included representatives from popular movements, trade unions, and left-wing parties, all coming together to assert the rights of the Sahelian peoples to self-determination.
Time.news Editor: It’s fascinating to see such a diverse group coming together. In recent months, we’ve seen significant upheaval in Sahel countries like Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger, including military coups and widespread protests. How have these events influenced the sentiment towards French colonial legacies?
Dr. Amina Jallow: The sentiment has shifted dramatically. The military coups, particularly the ousting of President Mohamed Bazoum in Niger, were not just political changes; they represented a clear rejection of continued French influence. The expulsion of French troops and the subsequent support for the military governments by grassroots anti-colonial movements indicate a strong desire among the Sahel peoples to reclaim their sovereignty and dismantle the patterns of neo-colonialism.
Time.news Editor: What role have grassroots activists played in these protests, and can you share any notable individuals or groups that have emerged as leaders in this movement?
Dr. Amina Jallow: Activists have been crucial in mobilizing public sentiment. Figures like Aisha Maiga, known as the “Mother of Resistance,” have become symbols of the fight against French presence in the region. Her unwavering commitment has inspired many, leading to sustained protests despite facing violent responses. Additionally, organizations like the “Rapprochement of Nations of the Sahel” (COSNAS) have been pivotal in organizing protests and unifying various factions of the movement.
Time.news Editor: France has recently faced severe criticism regarding its political maneuvers in the region, especially allegations of election manipulation. How has this affected public perception of French relations with Sahel countries?
Dr. Amina Jallow: The backlash against France has intensified. Accusations of supporting illegitimate regimes, coupled with military interventions, have led to a significant erosion of trust. Many people view these actions as attempts to maintain control over former colonies. As a result, public opinion has shifted decisively against France, with more citizens rallying around the idea of sovereign governance free from external interference.
Time.news Editor: Given the strength of this movement, what challenges do you predict they might face moving forward?
Dr. Amina Jallow: The road ahead is fraught with challenges. While there is a strong anti-colonial sentiment, establishing stable governance models in the wake of military rule can be difficult. Additionally, countries like France and other western powers are likely to push back against this growing sentiment, possibly employing economic or political pressure to regain influence. Internal divisions among various political factions could also pose significant hurdles to sustained unity.
Time.news Editor: It sounds like a complex situation with many moving parts. What do you think the international community’s response should be to support the Sahel countries during this transformative period?
Dr. Amina Jallow: The international community should respect the sovereignty and self-determination of the Sahel states. Support should focus on genuine dialog, democratic processes, and local governance rather than imposing external agendas. Investing in grassroots movements, civil society, and sustainable development initiatives will empower local populations to shape their futures without the shadow of neo-colonialism.
Time.news Editor: Thank you for your insights, Dr. Jallow. It’s clear that the situation in the Sahel is evolving rapidly, and the calls for independence from colonial legacies will only grow stronger. We appreciate your time today.
Dr. Amina Jallow: Thank you for having me. It’s crucial to keep the dialog alive as these movements evolve.