Implementation of the AES passport across the Sahel alliance

The project to overhaul identity documents, specifically travel documents, is currently underway within the Alliance of Sahel States (AES). This biometric initiative, which includes Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger, was launched to strengthen regional ties following their departure from previous blocs.

While the new system is officially in motion, the transition from the former ECOWAS (Cédéao) documents is progressing at different speeds across the three member nations. In Niger, for instance, the older regional passports are still being issued and remain fully recognized for travel.

Niger maintains use of ECOWAS travel documents

Citizens in Niger who have recently applied for or renewed their travel papers have noted that the design remains unchanged. One member of the Niger diaspora shared his experience, noting that despite expecting a new AES-branded document, his recently issued passport still carries the ECOWAS insignia.

This sentiment is echoed by other residents who have sought passports for religious travel, such as the pilgrimage to Mecca. Many were surprised to find that the documents provided were not the new alliance versions. Although the AES passport was officially introduced in 2025, the infrastructure for mass distribution in Niger is still being established.

In March, General Abdourahamane Tiani, the transitional leader, took part in an enrollment ceremony for the new AES biometric identity card, signaling the start of the process. The production of these biometric documents has been contracted to the Libya-based firm Alitisal Aljadeed.

Progress in Burkina Faso and Mali

The rollout appears more advanced in the other two member states. In Burkina Faso, both the AES passport and the national biometric identity card are already available to applicants.

In Mali, the transition is also well underway. Despite some early technical questions regarding international recognition, the AES documents are now being successfully used by Mali citizens living abroad. One Malian resident in France confirmed that his new passport, which clearly features AES symbols on the cover, was accepted without issue during recent international travel.

A gradual transition period

For those currently holding the older ECOWAS passports, these documents remain valid until their expiration date. Only when a renewal is required will citizens be transitioned to the AES format. This ensures that travel remains uninterrupted during the phasing-out process.

The new AES passport is a high-security biometric document that complies with the standards set by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO). It features an integrated electronic chip and a polycarbonate data page to minimize the risk of forgery and enhance security.

The introduction of these new identity pieces follows the withdrawal of Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger from the West African regional bloc. For these nations, the AES passport serves as a powerful symbol of national sovereignty and a clear break from their previous institutional affiliations.