“The JNIM Effect: Mali and Senegal Strengthen Military Ties Amid Rising Terror Threats”

Mali and Senegal are intensifying their military cooperation, notably through joint patrols and intelligence sharing, to counter the growing threat posed by the Group for the Support of Islam and Muslims (JNIM, linked to Al-Qaeda). This rapprochement follows a wave of JNIM attacks in western Mali, near the Senegalese border, jeopardizing the stability of both nations and essential trade routes.

Despite Mali's withdrawal from ECOWAS, the two nations are implementing border protection agreements. Attacks that occurred in July 2025, just two kilometers from Senegal, accelerated joint patrols in the Diboli–Kayes zone.

This partnership is crucial for Senegal, whose exports to Mali (about USD 1.3 billion in 2024, mainly fuel and cement) are vital. Analysts point out that while this cooperation is necessary for regional stability (given the need to build a new defense framework following the French military withdrawal), it also exposes Senegal to an increased risk of JNIM retaliation.

The Director of the Timbuktu Institute, Bakary Sambe, emphasizes the importance of broader regional cooperation, as well as Senegal's need to strengthen the socio-economic resilience of its eastern regions. #AES #Mali #BurkinaFaso #Niger #SahelAlliance #Security #UnifiedForce #DefenseCooperation #AbdourahamaneTiani