Niamey: Representatives of local authorities from the Alliance of Sahel States (AES) convened in Niamey, leading to the establishment of the Union of Local Authorities of the AES (UCT-AES). Abdoulaye Bassinga, governor of the Kadiogo region, was elected as president of the newly formed organization for a one-year term.

According to Burkina Information Agency, Comrade Abdoulaye Bassinga will be assisted by Abdoulaye Garba Maga from the Association of Regions of Mali, who has been appointed as the first vice-president. Maga will oversee cooperation between local authorities and state institutions. Additionally, Colonel Boubacar Soumana Garanke from the Association of Municipalities of Niger has been elected as the second vice-president, focusing on peace, security, and development.

The assembly of national associations of local authorities from the three AES member states aligns with the Confederation of the AES's goal to enhance integration through local cooperation. The meeting laid the groundwork for cooperation between local authorities in Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger.

The newly formed Union of Territorial Authorities of the AES serves as a platform for dialogue, experience sharing, and promoting joint initiatives in local development, governance, peace, security, community resilience, and economic development. The participants adopted statutes and internal regulations, officially establishing this institution to serve the local authorities within the AES region.

This initiative by the local authorities of Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger underscores their commitment to building a more integrated and united Sahelian region, focused on meeting the aspirations of their people. The gathering was attended by government members and several civilian and military figures.