President Faure Gnassingbé inspects security operations in northern Togo
On May 7, 2026, Faure Essozimna Gnassingbé, President of the Council and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, conducted a high-level inspection of the Koundjoaré Operation in northern Togo. This strategic visit aimed to assess security measures against terrorist threats in the Savanes Region.
On-site evaluation and strategic guidance
Upon landing in the area around 10 AM, the Commander-in-Chief was greeted by the Koundjoaré Operation commander. The visit continued at the Operational Command Post (PCO), where a comprehensive briefing on current security conditions, ongoing operations, and challenges faced by deployed forces was presented.
Following the assessment, President Gnassingbé provided new strategic directives to enhance the operational effectiveness of the units on the ground. The visit extended to the forward operational base in Tchamonga, near the eastern border. There, after a tactical demonstration using a sand table, he addressed the troops, commending their bravery, professionalism, and unwavering commitment to safeguarding the nation’s territorial integrity.
Cooperation and regional security efforts
The President also praised the achievements of the forces amid persistent regional security challenges. He highlighted the strong collaboration between Togo’s military and neighboring countries in combating terrorism, reinforcing the importance of joint efforts in West Africa.
Reaffirming the military leadership’s full support for Koundjoaré Operation, he assured troops that their operational needs would be progressively addressed to boost capabilities. He urged the forces to maintain heightened vigilance, discipline, and determination against destabilization attempts in the subregion.
Holistic approach to national security
In his remarks, Colonel Kombaté Latiémbé, Commander of the Koundjoaré Operation, expressed gratitude for the resources provided by the government to ensure operational success. He reaffirmed the troops’ commitment to securing both the population and the nation’s territory.
The visit underscored Togo’s comprehensive strategy in 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 actively strengthening community resilience in affected areas.
This initiative aligns with diplomatic and mediation efforts led by the President to promote peace, dialogue, and stability across West Africa.
