Major infrastructure projects are actively planned—and already underway—across the Sahel under the Alliance of Sahel States (AES), comprising Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso.
Key initiatives include:
• Regional Biometric Identity System
Niger has begun rolling out new AES-aligned biometric national ID cards and e-passports to enhance mobility, security, and administrative coordination across the bloc
• Aviation Connectivity
Plans are advancing for a regional Sahel airline, while Mali has confirmed intentions to relaunch its national airline by 2026, improving trade, travel, and regional cohesion.
• Transport Integration
A proposed 2,000+ km highway and railway network linking all three countries aims to strengthen trade flows and build on strategic corridors such as the Trans-Sahara Highway.
Funding for these projects is supported by a 0.5% levy on imported goods (excluding aid), also financing joint security operations.
Despite ongoing security challenges, the message is clear: the Sahel is investing in institutions, infrastructure, and long-term economic independence.