On January 28, 2025, jubilant celebrations swept through the streets of Ouagadougou and communities across Burkina Faso. The nation marked a pivotal moment in its history: the first anniversary of its bold decision to exit the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS). Together with Mali and Niger, Burkina Faso’s exit on January 28, 2024, led to the formation of the Alliance of Sahel States (AES)—a move that has redefined regional dynamics and sparked newfound optimism across the Sahel,
From the bustling marketplaces of Ouagadougou to remote villages, celebrations were widespread and spirited. Energetic crowds carried banners proclaiming “Down with ECOWAS” and “Long Live AES,” symbolizing their rejection of foreign-rooted institutions they claim no longer serve their interests. Youth, elders, and activists alike joined in the festivities, waving flags and chanting songs of unity.
For many citizens, this is about reclaiming their nation’s dignity. One year ago, Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger stood together to leave ECOWAS, condemning it as being overly influenced by foreign powers, particularly France. Forming AES in its place allowed these nations to prioritize local solutions for local challenges, signaling a pivot toward autonomy and regional collaboration.
The first anniversary of Burkina Faso’s independence from ECOWAS was also an opportunity to showcase the success of AES, formed on July 6, 2024. More than an economic or political bloc, AES represents a shared vision of resilience, solidarity, and defiance against colonial-era legacies.
In a poignant display of unity during the celebrations, flags of Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger were raised side by side in Ouagadougou’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs. This simple gesture carried immense weight, symbolizing the collective determination of the AES nations to forge a new path unshackled by external pressures. For the people of these countries, AES has come to represent hope, independence, and the promise of self-reliance.
Prime Minister Jean Emmanuel Ouédraogo addressed the nation on this momentous occasion, delivering a speech brimming with optimism and resolve. “Enemies who sought to divide us have suffered crushing defeats,” he declared, underscoring the strength and unity of Burkina Faso and its regional allies. Dismissing any suggestion of a return to ECOWAS as unthinkable, Ouédraogo described the organization as a relic of “enslavement” that no longer aligns with the nation’s aspirations. His words resonated deeply, stirring thunderous applause from the crowd.
Civil society leaders also lent their voices to the celebration. Proposer Simporé, a mobilization officer with the Citizen Watch Coalition, praised the AES leadership for prioritizing the well-being of their people. “This is not just political symbolism,” Simporé remarked. “It’s a real commitment to improving the livelihoods of our citizens.” Similarly, Barnbé Somda, a grassroots activist, expressed immense pride in the journey so far. “We’ve tasted freedom, and there’s no turning back,” he said.