The President of the Council and Supreme Head of the Armed Forces, Faure Essozimna Gnassingbé, conducted a strategic field visit on May 7, 2026, to the Koundjoaré operation zone in northern Togo. This on-site inspection was part of an ongoing effort to monitor security operations against terrorist threats in the Savanes region.

Upon arrival around 10 a.m., the Supreme Head of the Armed Forces was greeted by the Koundjoaré operation commander. He then proceeded to the Operational Command Post (PCO), where a detailed briefing on the evolving security landscape, ongoing operations, and the challenges faced by deployed troops was provided.

Following the briefing, the President outlined new strategic directives aimed at enhancing the effectiveness of the units active in the field.

The visit continued at the advanced operational post in Tchamonga, located along the eastern border. There, after a tactical demonstration using a sand table, Faure Gnassingbé addressed the troops directly. He commended their bravery, professionalism, and unwavering commitment to safeguarding the nation’s territorial integrity.

The Supreme Head of the Armed Forces also praised the troops for their achievements amid persistent regional security challenges. He highlighted the strong cooperation between Togolese forces and neighboring countries in the fight against terrorism.

Reaffirming the military leadership’s full support for the Koundjoaré operation, the President assured troops that their expressed needs would be progressively addressed to further strengthen operational capabilities.

He urged the forces to maintain high levels of vigilance, discipline, and determination in the face of destabilization attempts across the West African subregion.

Colonel Kombaté Latiémbé, the Koundjoaré operation commander, welcomed the President and acknowledged the resources provided to defense and security forces to ensure effective operations. He reaffirmed the troops’ commitment to securing both the population and national territory with determination.

Beyond military action, this visit underscores the comprehensive approach adopted by Togolese authorities in addressing security challenges. Alongside defense and security forces, multiple state mechanisms—including the Interministerial Committee for the Prevention and Fight Against Violent Extremism (CIPLEV) and the Emergency Program for the Savanes Region (PURS)—contribute to strengthening the resilience of affected communities.

This strategy is further bolstered by diplomatic and mediation initiatives led by the President to promote peace, dialogue, and stability in West Africa.