President Faure Gnassingbé reviews Togo’s Koundjoaré counter-terrorism operation
On 7 May 2026, Faure Essozimna Gnassingbé, President of Togo and Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces, conducted a high-level field visit to the Koundjoaré operation zone in the northern part of the country. This strategic trip aimed to assess ongoing security operations against terrorist threats in the Savanes Region.
The Head of State was greeted around 10:00 AM by the Senior Commander of Koundjoaré Operation upon landing by helicopter. He then proceeded to the Operational Command Post (PCO), where he received a detailed briefing on the current security situation, active missions, and challenges facing deployed troops.
New directives to strengthen military effectiveness
Following the briefing, the President issued fresh strategic guidelines to enhance the operational capabilities of the forces engaged on the ground. The visit continued to the advanced operational base in Tchamonga, located along the eastern border. There, after a tactical demonstration using a sand table model, Faure Gnassingbé addressed the soldiers directly.
He commended their bravery, professionalism, and unwavering commitment in defending the nation’s territorial integrity. The President also highlighted the results achieved despite persistent regional security challenges and praised the collaboration between Togolese forces and neighboring countries in combating terrorism.
Military leadership reassures troops and boosts morale
Faure Gnassingbé reaffirmed the military high command’s full support for Koundjoaré Operation, ensuring that expressed needs would be progressively addressed to improve operational readiness. He urged the troops to maintain high vigilance, discipline, and determination against destabilization attempts across West Africa.
The Colonel Kombaté Latiémbé, Senior Commander of Koundjoaré Operation, welcomed the President and expressed gratitude for the resources provided to defense and security forces. He reaffirmed the troops’ commitment to securing both the population and national territory with resolute determination.
Holistic approach to regional security challenges
Beyond military action, the visit underscored Togo’s comprehensive strategy in addressing security threats. In partnership with defense and security forces, several state mechanisms—including the Interministerial Committee for the Prevention and Fight Against Violent Extremism (CIPLEV) and the Emergency Program for the Savanes Region (PURS)—are bolstering community resilience in affected areas.
This integrated approach is further reinforced by diplomatic and mediation initiatives led by the President to promote peace, dialogue, and stability throughout West Africa.