Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger are joining forces to create a new media platform aimed at reshaping the narrative about their region.
This step comes as the three countries seek to challenge what they see as unfair portrayal by international outlets, particularly those based in the West.
The move is being driven by leaders of the Alliance of Sahel States (AES), a regional coalition formed by the military governments currently in power in each of the three nations. Their new joint project will launch radio and television stations under the AES banner to present news and stories from their own viewpoint.
The new broadcasters are expected to operate in both local and international languages, with the goal of reaching a wide audience both within and outside West Africa. Programming is likely to include local news, talk shows, documentaries, and cultural content. The initiative also intends to broadcast online to expand its influence beyond borders.
The decision to build a joint media voice comes after growing tension between the AES governments and Western institutions. Leaders in Ouagadougou, Bamako, and Niamey have accused foreign media of distorting facts and painting their administrations in a negative light. They believe a shared media outlet will help correct what they consider a one-sided narrative.
This initiative is being developed at a time when all three countries have distanced themselves from former colonial powers and are exploring deeper regional cooperation. Following recent political upheavals and military takeovers in each nation, the AES alliance has taken shape as a new front for mutual support.
Plans for the media network were shared following a series of meetings among the AES leadership. While no launch date has been officially announced yet, preparations are already underway, and technical teams are being assembled to lay the groundwork.
The new AES media platform reflects a growing trend in which African governments seek greater control over how they are represented to the world. With their own media network, these countries hope to reclaim the conversation and share their vision without outside filters.