Togo’s leader boosts anti-terror operations with on-ground inspection of Koundjoaré mission
The President of the Council and Supreme Head of the Armed Forces, Faure Essozimna Gnassingbé, conducted a crucial field visit on May 7, 2026, to the Koundjoaré operation zone in northern Togo. This strategic deployment aimed to assess security operations against terrorist threats in the Savanes region.
Upon landing via helicopter around 10 a.m., the Supreme Head of the Armed Forces was greeted by the Koundjoaré operation’s senior commander. The visit proceeded to the Operational Command Post (PCO), where Gnassingbé received a detailed briefing on current security conditions, ongoing operations, and the challenges faced by deployed troops.
New directives to enhance operational efficiency
After the briefing, President Gnassingbé issued strategic guidelines to bolster the performance of units engaged in the field. The visit then moved to the advanced operational post in Tchamonga, located along the eastern border. There, following a tactical sand-table presentation, he addressed the soldiers, commending their bravery, professionalism, and unwavering commitment to safeguarding the nation’s territorial integrity.
The Supreme Head of the Armed Forces also praised the troops for their achievements amid persistent regional security challenges. He highlighted the strong cooperation between Togolese forces and neighboring countries in combating terrorism.
Reinforcing regional security collaboration
Reaffirming military leadership’s support for Operation Koundjoaré, Gnassingbé assured troops that their expressed needs would be progressively addressed to enhance operational capabilities. He urged the forces to maintain high levels of vigilance, discipline, and determination against destabilization attempts in West Africa.
Colonel Kombaté Latiémbé, the Koundjoaré operation’s senior commander, welcomed the President’s presence, acknowledging the resources provided to defense and security forces to ensure effective field operations. He reaffirmed the troops’ commitment to securing both the population and national territory with determination.
Holistic approach to security challenges
Beyond military action, this visit underscores Togo’s comprehensive strategy in addressing security threats. Alongside defense and security 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)—contribute to strengthening resilience in affected communities.
This coordinated effort is further supported by diplomatic and mediation initiatives led by the President of the Council to promote peace, dialogue, and stability across West Africa.
