On May 7, 2026, Faure Essozimna Gnassingbé, President of the Council and Supreme Head of the Armed Forces of Togo, conducted a strategic visit to the Koundjoaré operation zone in the northern part of the country. This on-site assessment was part of a broader effort to monitor security operations targeting terrorist threats in the Savanes Region.
Upon arrival around 10 a.m., the Supreme Head of the Armed Forces was welcomed by the Koundjoaré operation commander. The visit included a stop at the Operational Command Post (PCO), where a detailed briefing was provided on the current security landscape, ongoing military actions, and the challenges faced by deployed troops.
Following the briefing, the President outlined new strategic directives aimed at enhancing the operational efficiency of the forces engaged in the field.
His visit continued to the advanced operational post in Tchamonga, located along the eastern border. There, after a tactical demonstration using a sand table, Faure Gnassingbé addressed the troops. He commended their bravery, professionalism, and unwavering commitment to protecting the nation’s territorial integrity.
The Supreme Head of the Armed Forces also acknowledged the progress achieved by the forces in a region grappling with persistent security challenges. He highlighted the importance of cross-border cooperation with neighboring countries in the fight against terrorism.
Reaffirming the military hierarchy’s support for Koundjoaré, the President assured troops that their expressed needs would be progressively addressed to further bolster operational capabilities.
He urged the forces to maintain high levels of vigilance, discipline, and determination in the face of ongoing destabilization attempts across the subregion.
The Colonel Kombaté Latiémbé, Commander of the Koundjoaré operation, welcomed the President by expressing gratitude for the resources allocated to defense and security forces. He reaffirmed the troops’ commitment to securing national territory and protecting local populations.
Beyond military action, this visit underscores Togo’s comprehensive approach to addressing security challenges. Alongside defense forces, multiple state mechanisms—such as the Interministerial Committee for Preventing and Combating Violent Extremism (CIPLEV) and the Emergency Program for the Savanes Region (PURS)—are contributing to strengthening community resilience in affected areas.
This strategy is further supported by diplomatic and mediation initiatives led by the President to promote peace, dialogue, and stability across West Africa.
