The Niger is positioning itself as a key voice in reshaping the mandate of the United Nations Office for West Africa and the Sahel (UNOWAS). In Niamey, Dr. Mamoudou Harouna Djingarey, Chairman of the Advisory Council for Refoundation (CCR), engaged in high-level talks with former Ethiopian President Sahle-Work Zewde, who is leading the Independent Strategic Review of the UNOWAS. This dialogue unfolds amid a shifting landscape of Sahelian relations with international institutions.
Niger’s leadership in regional stability discussions
As part of an ongoing evaluation of UNOWAS effectiveness, Sahle-Work Zewde’s mission spans multiple West African countries, gathering insights from national authorities on the bureau’s operations and future evolution. The discussions are particularly timely, given the region’s complex challenges: escalating security threats, political transitions, humanitarian crises, and developmental hurdles.
Sovereignty and refoundation at the heart of Niger’s priorities
During the meeting, Dr. Djingarey outlined the CCR’s guiding principles, emphasizing its role in supporting Niger’s refoundation process. The council’s mission, he explained, revolves around strengthening national sovereignty, fostering social cohesion, and promoting lasting peace—cornerstones that also address the Sahel’s most pressing challenges.
The discussions covered critical areas such as governance, regional stability, conflict prevention, and cooperation mechanisms between West African and Sahelian states. These exchanges reflect Niger’s commitment to shaping a future aligned with its national interests.
Evaluating UNOWAS: adapting to a changing Sahel
Sahle-Work Zewde’s visit is part of the Independent Strategic Review, a comprehensive assessment aimed at refining UNOWAS’ mandate to better address the region’s evolving needs. The review seeks to align the bureau’s interventions with the realities of a region grappling with security threats, political transitions, humanitarian emergencies, and developmental gaps.
Following the talks, the former Ethiopian leader commended Niger’s authorities for their openness and the depth of the dialogue. She noted that the insights gathered will directly inform the strategic review’s conclusions and shape UNOWAS’ future direction.
Diplomatic exchanges rooted in national sovereignty
This meeting underscores Niger’s determination to engage with international partners while upholding its sovereignty. The CCR stressed that dialogue with global organizations must respect Niger’s national choices and strategic autonomy.
The session was attended by Abdou Moustapha, General Rapporteur of the CCR, marking another milestone in the Independent Strategic Review’s consultations. The findings are expected to redefine UNOWAS’ role in addressing the profound transformations reshaping West Africa and the Sahel.
