Reassessing U.S. Engagement In West Africa

-A Comprehensive Analysis of Niger's Withdrawal from Military Cooperation and Its Geopolitical Implications.

By Ambassador Omar Arouna, MBA*

The recent decision by Niger to withdraw from its military cooperation agreement with the United States marks a significant juncture in U.S.-West African relations. Ambassador Omar Arouna, President of Global Public Affairs and Engagement at Gunster Strategies Worldwide and Chairman of Believe In Africa (BIA), highlights the importance of exploring the historical context, implications, and potential solutions for this development, which has far-reaching consequences for regional stability and U.S. foreign policy. Gunster Strategies Worldwide is a leading public affairs firm known for its strategic approach to advocacy, communication, and engagement on a global scale.

Historical Context of U.S.-Niger Relations:

Niger has been a crucial strategic partner for the U.S. in West Africa, particularly in counterterrorism efforts in the Sahel region. The U.S. has invested hundreds of millions of dollars in Niger, including constructing a major airbase in Agadez, serving as a hub for surveillance and counterterrorism operations. This relationship has been instrumental in addressing security challenges posed by jihadist groups affiliated with al-Qaida and ISIS. However, the partnership has faced challenges. The U.S.'s alignment with former colonial powers, notably France, has raised concerns about neocolonialism. The perception that the U.S. is upholding French interests has eroded its credibility as an honest broker in the region.

Implications of Niger's Withdrawal:

Niger's withdrawal signifies a reevaluation of its foreign policy priorities and a move towards diversifying its alliances. The decision came after a visit by U.S. officials, criticized for a lack of diplomatic protocol and a perceived condescending attitude. This has led to concerns about the future of U.S. counterterrorism operations in the Sahel and the potential for a realignment of regional powers away from traditional Western allies towards alternative partners like Russia, China, and Iran.

Impact on Geopolitical Dynamics:

Russia's Influence: Russia's presence in the Sahel region has been growing significantly. For instance, Russia has provided security assistance, diplomatic backing, and information operations support to the military regimes in Mali and Burkina Faso. Russian military advisers arrived in Mali in late 2021, and Niger recently signed a military cooperation agreement with Moscow, joining more than 40 nations that have established such ties with Russia. This expansion of influence is a part of Russia's broader strategy to strengthen its presence in Africa.

Iran's Engagement: Although specific details regarding a deal between Niger and Iran for access to Nigerien uranium reserves are not publicly available, such a deal would have significant implications for global geopolitics and nuclear proliferation, given Iran's contentious nuclear program and the strategic importance of uranium.

China's Role: China has been actively expanding its economic and military footprint in Africa, including in Niger. Beijing's investment in infrastructure and resources is part of its broader Belt and Road Initiative, aiming to enhance its global influence. This expansion could potentially diminish U.S. influence in the region.

French Role: France has historical ties to the Sahel region due to its colonial past, and it has been leading foreign counterterrorism efforts in West Africa. However, there has been growing resistance to French presence in the region, with countries like Mali turning to Russia for military support and Niger recently ordering the withdrawal of French troops.

 Impact on Counterterrorism Efforts: The withdrawal of Niger from military cooperation with the U.S. could hinder counterterrorism efforts in the region. The U.S. has relied on its partnership with Niger for surveillance and combat operations against jihadist groups. The realignment of alliances in favor of countries like Russia and China could create a vacuum that extremist groups may exploit, potentially destabilizing the region.

Potential Solutions and Outlook:

 Reassessing U.S. Engagement Strategy: The U.S. needs to adopt a more balanced approach, focusing on genuine partnerships based on mutual respect and shared values. Utilizing methodologies for information campaigns, issues advocacy, and opinion research can help improve messaging and remove stigmas associated with U.S. involvement in the region. For example, employing a scientific approach to communications, which blends data-driven insights with an in-depth understanding of cultural nuances, can be highly effective. This method involves conducting opinion and message research to perfect data-driven persuasive messaging, forming robust alliances through coalition-building, and crafting impactful messages that resonate with the target audience. Additionally, the use of creative strategy and production can ensure that messages connect with the audience through the most suitable platforms and at the right times. By testing messages and visuals prior to launch, the strategy can be optimized to get the most effective and authentic reaction from the audience. Such an approach not only improves the U.S.'s messaging but also helps in building long-term, respectful partnerships with countries in the region, thereby enhancing the effectiveness of the U.S. engagement strategy in West Africa.

Addressing Root Causes of Instability in Niger: To effectively address the root causes of instability in Niger, the U.S. should continue and enhance its efforts in economic development, governance, and human rights. Through agencies such as USAID, the U.S. has implemented programs aimed at improving food security, supporting counterterrorism and peacekeeping capacity, promoting democratic governance, and improving health and education in Niger.

These initiatives are crucial for long-term stability and inclusive economic growth. • One key area of focus should be enhancing resilience in agriculture and food security, as over 80 percent of Nigeriens rely on subsistence agriculture. USAID's programs aim to improve livestock, resource management, and agricultural practices, which are vital for coping with recurrent crises such as droughts and floods. • Strengthening governance and increasing citizen participation, particularly in areas vulnerable to violent extremism, is another critical aspect. • USAID supports the Government of Niger's efforts to respond more effectively to citizen concerns through advocacy, dialogue, and cooperation among the legislature, civil society, and local governments. • In addition to these efforts, the U.S. should continue supporting Niger's education sector, which is essential for addressing the high illiteracy rate and low school attendance rates. USAID's contributions to the Government of Niger's national education program have led to progress in the sector, which is vital for the country's future development. • Furthermore, the Ambassador’s Special Self-Help Fund, managed by the U.S. Embassy in Niamey, provides an excellent model for supporting small community development projects. This fund has enabled initiatives such as building fish smoking ovens for local women's groups in Diffa and training young men with disabilities in Niamey to create artisanal leather crafts and furniture. These projects not only address immediate community needs but also promote self-sufficiency and sustainable development. • To enhance these initiatives, the U.S. should focus on engaging in creative production and earned media to craft impactful messages that resonate with local populations and policymakers. Highlighting success stories and promoting awareness of ongoing programs can strengthen the U.S.'s engagement strategy in Niger and contribute to long-term stability in the region.

 Enhancing Diplomatic Efforts: To rebuild trust and credibility, the U.S. should engage in respectful and open dialogue with West African nations, including those within the newly created Alliance des Etats du Sahel (AES). The AES, comprising Niger, Mali, and Burkina Faso, signifies a shift in the region's geopolitical landscape, with these countries seeking greater autonomy and collaboration in security, political, and economic matters, independent of traditional Western and ECOWAS influences. The U.S. should not dismiss its engagement with Mali and Burkina Faso, as these countries play a critical role in regional stability.

For instance, the U.S. can leverage digital and social media strategies to amplify its positive engagement in the region. By highlighting success stories and promoting transparent communication, the U.S. can demonstrate its commitment to supporting the region's development and security needs.

 • Collaborating with the AES on targeted initiatives, such as counterterrorism efforts or economic development projects, can showcase a genuine partnership approach.

 • Furthermore, the U.S. should consider supporting minilateral cooperation within the AES framework. This approach, focusing on narrowly defined and practical areas of collaboration, can yield quicker results and build confidence among the member states.

• By engaging in areas such as border security, logistics corridors, and technology transfer, the U.S. can contribute to the region's prosperity while respecting the sovereignty and ambitions of the Sahel states. In summary, enhancing diplomatic efforts with the AES and continuing engagement with Mali and Burkina Faso are essential for fostering stability and development in the Sahel region. Through respectful dialogue, targeted collaboration, and effective communication, the U.S. can strengthen its role as a constructive partner in West Africa.

Strengthening Regional Cooperation: Supporting regional initiatives like ECOWAS can enhance collective security and development. Coalition building, grassroots, and grasstops engagement can mobilize support for collaborative efforts.

Investing in Soft Power in Niger and the Sahel Region: To enhance its soft power in Niger and the Sahel region, the U.S. can consider several initiatives based on its previous successes and the current geopolitical landscape:

Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief: Drawing from the success of Operation Tomodachi in Japan, where the U.S. Navy's relief efforts significantly improved public perception of the U.S., the U.S. could provide similar humanitarian assistance in Niger and the Sahel region. This could involve sending medical teams, providing emergency food supplies, or assisting in natural disaster recovery efforts, which would demonstrate the U.S.'s commitment to the well-being of the local populations. Educational and

• Cultural Exchange Programs: Building on the positive global perception of U.S. universities and cultural products, the U.S. can invest in educational and cultural exchange programs. Initiatives such as the Fulbright Program or the International Visitor Leadership Program can foster mutual understanding and build long-term relationships with future leaders and influencers in the region.

• Health Infrastructure Development: Inspired by the Global Fragility Act partnerships, the U.S. can focus on building durable health infrastructure in Niger and the Sahel. This could involve supporting the construction of clinics, training healthcare workers, and providing medical equipment, which would contribute to the region's resilience against health crises and epidemics.

• Economic Empowerment Initiatives: Considering Africa's demographic trends and the potential for economic growth, the U.S. can support initiatives that empower youth and women in the region. Programs focusing on entrepreneurship, vocational training, and access to finance can help unleash the economic potential of these demographics, leading to more stable and prosperous communities.

• Engagement with Regional Alliances: As the Alliance des Etats du Sahel (AES) emerges as a significant regional bloc, the U.S. should engage with this alliance to support its goals of sovereignty and economic integration. Collaboration on security, trade, and development projects can help build trust and foster a more stable and prosperous Sahel region. By focusing on these areas, the U.S. can strengthen its soft power in Niger and the Sahel region, contributing to long-term stability, development, and mutually beneficial relationships.

Conclusion:

The decision by Niger to end its military cooperation with the United States signals a critical point for reconsidering America's involvement in West Africa. To positively influence the region's stability and growth, the U.S. must embrace a more nuanced strategy that addresses the underlying causes of instability and invests in diplomatic and soft power efforts.

In moving forward, it is essential for the U.S. to adapt to the changing dynamics of West Africa and cultivate authentic partnerships rooted in mutual respect, shared values, and a thorough understanding of the region's cultural and geopolitical complexities. Prioritizing diplomatic initiatives, strengthening regional collaboration, and focusing on soft power approaches that foster long-term development are key to repositioning the U.S. as a reliable and constructive ally in West Africa.

The future trajectory of U.S.-West African relations will largely depend on America's willingness to revise its engagement strategies and interact with the region in a way that honors its sovereignty and ambitions. By employing strategic communication, targeted cooperation, and a sincere commitment to partnership, the U.S. can play a significant role in fostering a stable, prosperous, and secure West Africa.

*Ambassador Omar Arouna is President Global Public Affairs and Engagement Gunster Strategies Worldwide