Togo: Faure Gnassingbé boosts security efforts in operation koundjoaré

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

Upon landing around 10 AM, Gnassingbé was greeted by the Koundjoaré operation commander. He then proceeded to the Operational Command Post (PCO), where he received a detailed briefing on the evolving security landscape, current operations, and the challenges faced by deployed troops.

Following the briefing, the Supreme Head of the Armed Forces issued fresh strategic directives aimed at enhancing the operational effectiveness of the units on the ground.

The visit continued to the advanced operational post in Tchamonga, situated along the eastern border. There, after a tactical demonstration using a sand table, Faure Gnassingbé addressed the troops. He commended their bravery, professionalism, and unwavering commitment to protecting 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 collaboration between Togolese forces and neighboring countries in combating terrorism.

Reaffirming the military leadership’s full support for Operation Koundjoaré, the President of the Council 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 against destabilization attempts in the West African subregion.

In his welcome address, Colonel Kombaté Latiémbé, the Koundjoaré operation commander, expressed gratitude to Faure Gnassingbé for the resources provided to defense and security forces. He reaffirmed the troops’ commitment to 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 and security forces, multiple state mechanisms—including the Interministerial Committee for Preventing and Combating Violent Extremism (CIPLEV) and the Emergency Program for the Savanes Region (PURS)—are bolstering the resilience of affected communities.

This 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.