Confederation of Sahel States Hoists Flag, Marking Break From ECOWAS

The Confederation of Sahel States (CSS) has officially hoisted its flag, marking a new chapter for Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso. The ceremony occurred on Monday, March 3, 2025, at Koulouba, Mali, with Mali’s transitional leader and CSS president, General Assimi Goïta, presiding.

The flag was first unveiled on February 22 in Bamako during a ceremony led by Major General Abdoulaye Maïga, Mali’s Prime Minister. Ministers from CSS member states attended after the Heads of State approved the design. The rectangular flag has a green background with the CSS logo. It symbolises growth, hope, prosperity, and the region’s vast natural resources.

Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger withdrew from ECOWAS on January 29, 2024, due to neglect in security matters and economic sanctions that deepened their struggles. In September 2023, they created the Alliance of Sahel States (AES), which later transitioned into the CSS.

Since breaking away, the confederation has taken steps to strengthen regional ties. Recently, it introduced a regional passport to improve movement and trade among member states. According to a CSS statement, the new passports are now in circulation, while ECOWAS passports will remain valid until they expire.

Economic cooperation is also a key priority. CSS leaders agreed to establish a Regional Investment Bank during a ministerial meeting in Bamako on January 16, 2025. The bank will fund major projects and support economic growth. Ministers from Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger also approved large-scale infrastructure plans. Regional experts held preparatory discussions on January 14 and 15. With its flag raised, the CSS has solidified its break from ECOWAS.

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