ECOWAS: Ghana and the Countries of Mali Niger and Burkina Faso, Any Compromise on Return to the Regional Institution in Sight.?

By Raymond Enoch

In a firm, bold and significant diplomatic effort aimed at bolstering regional reconciliation and stability, His Excellency John Dramani Mahama, President of Ghana, last week and ending on Monday 10th March 2025 embarked on a mission to the countries of Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso.

The visit, which was part of Ghana’s commitment to brokering peace and fostering stronger ties within the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), sought to address pressing issues of insecurity, trade, and regional unity amidst the growing instability in these nations.

The three countries—Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso—had suspended their membership in ECOWAS following military coups that toppled their elected governments.

On January 29, 2025, the military juntas in these countries made a decision to exit the regional bloc in protest against ECOWAS sanctions and its demands for the restoration of civilian rule. Ghana, a longstanding advocate of democracy and peace within ECOWAS, has positioned itself at the forefront of efforts to convince these countries to reconsider their decision and rejoin the ECOWAS Commission.

While the task ahead appears daunting, President Mahama’s visit to the military leaders in each of the countries that exited the ECOWAS Commission underscores Ghana’s determination to promote African solidarity and regional integration, despite the challenges. I

When the Ghana Aircraft and President touched the ground in this countries, his message and discussions with the military juntas was the the same. Mahama emphasized the importance of cooperation in combating the growing threat of extremist groups that have destabilized the Sahel region. He also underscored the need for stronger economic ties and trade relations between Ghana and these countries, which are vital to the stability of the West African region.

Ghana, geographically is located at the crossroads of the region with Côte d’Ivoire to the west, Burkina Faso to the north, and Togo to the east. The country has long been a key player within ECOWAS. As one of the founding members of the regional body, Ghana has been a vocal advocate for democracy, peace, and regional integration. Its role within ECOWAS has been pivotal, from facilitating mediation efforts during the Liberian conflict in the 1990s to supporting economic initiatives like the West African Monetary Zone (WAMZ), which aims to introduce a common currency for the region.

Political analysts, diplomats, and power brokers across the region are keenly observing the impact of President Mahama’s diplomatic mission. His efforts could set the stage for a potential resolution to the political crisis facing the Sahel, but questions remain about the likelihood of Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso returning to ECOWAS. While Mahama’s visit has been hailed as a significant step, the political realities on the ground in these countries, particularly under military rule, may present significant hurdles to re-engagement with ECOWAS.

Furthermore, the military regimes in Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso have expressed dissatisfaction with ECOWAS’s stance on military coups and its imposition of sanctions. The pressure for civilian rule, which ECOWAS continues to advocate for, may not align with the agendas of the current military leaders, further complicating the situation.

As ECOWAS celebrates its 50th anniversary, the question of whether these countries will rejoin the regional body remains uncertain. The organization’s history has been defined by efforts to maintain peace and democracy in West Africa, and the return of Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso could strengthen ECOWAS’s ability to respond to regional crises. However, the challenge lies in finding a balance between diplomatic dialogue and the enforcement of democratic principles.

Ghana’s leadership in this diplomatic mission speaks to its long-standing commitment to regional peace and cooperation. Yet, the success of this endeavor will depend on how willing the military regimes in Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso are to compromise and align with the broader goals of ECOWAS. The coming months will likely provide a clearer picture of whether the paths of these nations and ECOWAS will converge once more, or if the rift will deepen.

As the diplomatic process continues, all eyes will be on the future of ECOWAS and the role that these countries will play in shaping the region’s security, economic development, and political landscape. The outcomes of Ghana’s efforts, and the broader implications for West African unity, remain to be seen.