Togo president reinforces security efforts in northern frontlines

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

Upon arrival around 10 a.m., the Supreme Head of the Armed Forces was greeted by the Koundjoaré operation commander. He then proceeded to the Operational Command Post (PCO), where a comprehensive briefing on the evolving security landscape, current operations, and challenges faced by deployed troops was delivered.

Following the briefing, the President outlined new strategic directives to enhance the effectiveness of field units engaged in the mission.

meeting with frontline troops and tactical review

The visit continued at the advanced operational post in Tchamonga, located along the eastern border. There, after a tactical briefing using a sand table demonstration, Faure Gnassingbé addressed the soldiers directly. He commended their bravery, professionalism, and unwavering commitment to defending 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.

commitment to operational excellence and regional stability

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 strengthen operational capabilities.

He urged the forces to maintain high levels of vigilance, discipline, and determination in the face of ongoing attempts at destabilization in the West African subregion.

In his welcome 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’ resolve to continue securing both the population and national territory with determination.

Beyond military action, this visit underscores the comprehensive approach adopted by Togolese authorities in addressing security challenges. Alongside defense forces, multiple state mechanisms—including the Interministerial Committee for the Prevention and Fight Against 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 to promote peace, dialogue, and stability across West Africa.