Niger highlights unowas reforms in Niamey discussions

Niger takes center stage in shaping the future of the United Nations Office for West Africa and the Sahel (UNOWAS). In Niamey, Dr. Mamoudou Harouna Djingarey, Chair of the Advisory Council for Refoundation (CCR), engaged in high-level talks with Sahle-Work Zewde, former President of Ethiopia and head of the Independent Strategic Review mission for UNOWAS. The meeting underscores Niger’s commitment to asserting its national voice in regional and international policy discussions.

As part of a broader regional assessment, the UNOWAS review mission is visiting key countries to gather insights on how the bureau’s mandate can better address the evolving challenges of West Africa and the Sahel. These challenges include escalating security threats, political transitions, humanitarian crises, and pressing development needs.

Niger presents its vision for refoundation and sovereignty

The CCR Chair outlined the institution’s guiding principles, emphasizing its role in supporting Niger’s refoundation process. The Advisory Council is focused on strengthening national sovereignty, fostering social cohesion, and promoting lasting peace—key priorities that also align with the Sahel’s broader efforts to overcome its security and development hurdles.

The discussions covered critical topics such as governance, regional stability, conflict prevention, and mechanisms for cooperation among West African and Sahelian states.

An evaluation to redefine UNOWAS’ future role

Sahle-Work Zewde’s visit is part of the Independent Strategic Review, a comprehensive evaluation aimed at assessing UNOWAS’ current effectiveness and proposing adjustments to its mission in response to the region’s shifting dynamics. The review seeks to enhance the bureau’s ability to tackle emerging security threats, political transitions, humanitarian emergencies, and developmental demands.

Following the meeting, the former Ethiopian leader commended Niger’s authorities for their openness and the depth of the exchanges. She noted that the insights gathered from national institutions will shape the final recommendations of the strategic review and inform discussions on UNOWAS’ future direction.

Niger reaffirms its sovereignty in international partnerships

This meeting reflects Niger’s ongoing commitment to engaging with global partners while upholding its national sovereignty. The CCR underscores that dialogue with international organizations must align with Niger’s chosen path and respect its institutional decisions.

The session was attended by Abdou Moustapha, General Rapporteur of the CCR, marking another milestone in the Independent Strategic Review’s consultations. The findings from these discussions will help redefine UNOWAS’ role in addressing the profound transformations reshaping West Africa and the Sahel.