JANUARY 1, 2026 — In a development highlighting the deepening military cooperation between Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger, the Alliance of Sahel States (AES) officially presented a standard to its new military command, the Unified Force (FU-AES), in Bamako on Saturday, December 20.
The ceremony was presided over by the President of the Transition in Mali and current President of the Confederation of Sahel States, General of the Army Assimi Goïta.
The standard itself is a distinct military banner, primarily green with gold fringe along the edges, and features a large central yellow shield. In the centre of the shield is the emblem of the AES, featuring a baobab, a tree emblematic of the Sahel, symbolizing life, strength, and cultural diversity. The tree is framed by a radiant orange sun, representing warmth and hope. Beneath the baobab’s branches, human silhouettes signify the diversity and interconnectedness of the region’s populations. Three golden stars highlight the tripartite commitment of Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso.
Also on the shield are the initials “FU-AES,” which stands for Force Unifiée (Unified Force) and Alliance des États du Sahel (Alliance of Sahel States), placed over the emblem. Below the emblems are the organization’s motto, “un espace, un peuple, un destin“, translating to “one space, one people, one destiny,” and Force Unifiée de l’AES.
The official flag for the Alliance of Sahel States was unveiled earlier in February 2025.
Image: African Report files
