FAF review of Benin, Africa
We have published over six articles on Benin, advocating for its integration into the Sahel coalition.
However, a current border standoff with Niger poses challenges.
The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has not played a particularly effective role in managing the border issues between these two nations.
Consequently, oil exports have been disrupted. We do not hold Niger responsible, as they are rightly concerned about ongoing Islamic jihadist activities and the subsequent attacks on Benin, which have led them to seek foreign assistance from nations such as France and the United States.
Although the international support is not as extensive as we would hope, the attacks by Jama'at Nasr al-Islam wal Muslimin (JNIM), a branch of Al-Qaeda potentially linked to Boko Haram in Nigeria and Hayat Tahrir al-Sham in Syria, are concerning.
We have observed that Nigeria frequently closes its borders with Benin, which is already grappling with economic difficulties. Benin has significant untapped potential in sectors such as mineral resources and tourism. However, the activities of JNIM pose a high risk to potential visitors.
In reviewing Benin's economic growth plan, it is evident that they are focusing on vocational education and foreign direct investment. However, progress is slow due to the JNIM threat.
It is crucial for ECOWAS to unite and support these smaller, struggling nations by facilitating free trade agreements. The primary mandate should be the eradication of JNIM.
Looking at the situation in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, we see widespread suffering, highlighting the need for a robust ECOWAS board to implement stringent policies that protect its members.
We hope for the eradication of JNIM, as terrorism is a global issue that affects all nations, whether they face it alone or collectively. Ideally, political and cultural differences would be set aside, allowing Benin to join the path toward prosperity alongside the Sahel.
The President of Burkina Faso is a commendable leader who can contribute positively.
