Burkina Faso Issues First AES Passport as Regional Bloc Pushes for Integration

Burkina Faso has issued its first Confédération des États du Sahel (AES) passport, with Captain Ibrahim Traoré as the first recipient. The move follows Burkina Faso, Niger, and Mali’s official withdrawal from the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) and signals a push for deeper regional integration.

Authorities in Ouagadougou have begun producing the new passport, which will be available to citizens of the three AES member states. The passport’s circulation was set to begin on January 29, 2025, though ECOWAS passports will remain valid until they expire to ensure a smooth transition.

Residents in Ouagadougou see the passport as a symbol of progress, with some believing it will help counter negative perceptions about the region. Cheik Diallo, a local graphic designer, said many outside the bloc have been misled about its viability. Speaking to Africanews, he said he believed the AES passport proves that the alliance is functional, allowing people to travel and conduct business independently of ECOWAS.

The introduction of the passport follows decisions reached at a ministerial meeting in Bamako on 16 January 2025. Among them is establishing a regional investment bank to finance infrastructure projects to improve connectivity and boost economic development. AES leaders reaffirmed their commitment to African cooperation by allowing ECOWAS nationals visa-free access to their territories.

The AES was formed as an alternative bloc after tensions with ECOWAS, particularly over governance and sanctions. With a shared passport, planned economic initiatives, and closer political coordination, Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger are working towards greater regional integration on their terms.

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