Towards a Sahel Confederation: Challenges and Prospects for Regional Unity

The Sahel region faces persistent challenges including political instability, economic underdevelopment, security threats, and environmental crises. In response to these challenges, regional cooperation has emerged as a crucial strategy for fostering stability and development. This paper explores the feasibility of establishing a Sahel Confederation, analysing both the challenges and potential benefits of deeper regional integration. Key obstacles such as governance instability, ethnic and linguistic diversity, and external geopolitical pressures are examined. The study assesses the economic and security advantages of a confederation, mainly in enhancing trade, counterterrorism efforts, and climate resilience. Drawing on comparative regional models and existing frameworks such as the G5 Sahel and ECOWAS, this paper highlights strategic pathways toward greater unity. Finally, the paper argues that while significant barriers exist, a confederation could provide a viable solution for fostering long-term stability and prosperity in the Sahel.