Global powers vie for influence in post-French Sahel as Turkey, Iran, Morocco step in

In the wake of France’s abrupt withdrawal from the volatile Sahel region, a power struggle ensues as Turkey, Iran, and Morocco vie for economic and military dominance. The vacuum left by France’s departure has prompted Sahelian nations to seek alternatives for military support and development projects.

Sahelian military regimes, facing financial constraints and grappling with jihadist violence, find appeal in Turkish military equipment and the development and infrastructure projects presented by Morocco and Iran. Recent coups in Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger have led to their exit from a Western African bloc, forming a joint defense pact against the backdrop of a persistent jihadist insurgency.

Burkina Faso’s Foreign Minister, Karamoko Jean Marie Traore, emphasizes the need for self-sufficiency, stating that under-equipped Sahelian armies aim “to develop endogenous capabilities to reduce our dependence.” France’s withdrawal, triggered by strained relations and Russian military involvement following coups, has created an opening for global players.

Turkey strategically positions itself as an alternative to Western powers and Russia. Ankara sells heavy combat drones and works on a trans-Saharan corridor from the Gulf of Guinea to Algeria, aiming to increase visibility and influence in the region. A study by the Netherlands Institute of International Relations notes Turkey’s tactic of accompanying investors and offering tax exemptions, solidifying its presence.

Meanwhile, Morocco focuses on economic development, offering its road, port, and rail infrastructure to landlocked Sahelian countries. King Mohammed VI calls for upgrading Sahel countries’ infrastructure to connect them to regional transport and communication networks. The longstanding relations between Morocco and Niger are highlighted, emphasizing economic cooperation.

Iran, adopting a revolutionary and anti-imperialist narrative, signs cooperation agreements with Burkina Faso in various fields, including energy, urban planning, and higher education. While the rhetoric appeals to former colonies, economist Thierry Coville warns that Iran may lack the necessary funding to fulfill these agreements, noting Iran’s increased uranium production and potential interest in Niger’s uranium reserves.

As Sahelian nations navigate this geopolitical scramble, the evolving dynamics highlight a complex landscape where economic interests, military support, and regional development intertwine.