Togo strengthens security operations with Faure Gnassingbé’s strategic visit

The President of the Council, Faure Essozimna Gnassingbé, Supreme Head of the Armed Forces, conducted a pivotal visit to the Koundjoaré operation zone in northern Togo on May 7, 2026. This on-site assessment was part of an ongoing evaluation of security measures deployed against terrorist threats in the Savanes region.

Upon arrival around 10 a.m., Faure Gnassingbé was greeted by the Koundjoaré operation commander at the helicopter landing site. The Supreme Head of the Armed Forces then proceeded to the Operational Command Post (PCO), where he received a detailed briefing on the current security landscape, ongoing military actions, and the challenges faced by deployed forces.

Following the strategic review, the President outlined new directives aimed at enhancing the operational effectiveness of the units on the ground.

The visit extended to the advanced operational post in Tchamonga, along the eastern border. There, after a tactical demonstration using a sand table, Faure Gnassingbé addressed the troops directly. He commended their bravery, professionalism, and unwavering commitment to protecting the nation’s territorial integrity.

The Supreme Head of the Armed Forces also acknowledged the achievements of the deployed forces amid persistent regional security challenges. He highlighted the strong cooperation between Togolese forces and those of neighboring countries in the fight against terrorism.

Reaffirming the military leadership’s full support for the Koundjoaré operation, the President assured troops that their expressed needs would be progressively addressed to further bolster operational capabilities.

He urged the forces to maintain high levels of vigilance, discipline, and resolve against destabilization attempts in West Africa.

In his welcoming address, Colonel Kombaté Latiémbé, Commander of the Koundjoaré operation, expressed gratitude to the President for the resources allocated to defense and security forces. He reaffirmed the troops’ commitment to securing communities and national territory with determination.

Beyond military action, this visit underscores Togo’s comprehensive approach to addressing security challenges. Alongside defense and security forces, multiple government mechanisms—including the Interministerial Committee for the Prevention and Fight Against Violent Extremism (CIPLEV) and the Emergency Program for the Savanes Region (PURS)—are working to strengthen community resilience in affected areas.

This strategy is further reinforced by diplomatic and mediation initiatives led by the President to promote peace, dialogue, and stability across West Africa.