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Benin is currently in discussions with Rwanda to provide logistical support and expertise in its fight against jihadism in the north, according to some reports, while its army is deployed in the northern region to contain jihadist groups in neighbouring Niger and Burkina Faso
Benin is currently in discussions with Rwanda to provide logistical support and expertise in its fight against jihadism in the north, according to some reports, while its army is deployed in the northern region to contain jihadist groups in neighbouring Niger and Burkina Faso.
Africa Intelligence, a news media specializing in Africa, reported that “secret negotiations between Kigali and Cotonou” were underway for the deployment of several hundred Rwandan soldiers and experts in northern Benin. It is estimated that close to 350 Rwandan personnel could be deployed, which could even double depending on the situation.
General Fructueux Gbaguidi, the Chief of Staff of the Beninese armed forces visited Rwanda last July for bilateral talks aimed at deepening existing relations between the two armies. It is also reported that Coastal countries such as Benin, Togo, Ghana, and Cote d’Ivoire are seeking to strengthen their military posture to secure their borders with Sahel countries. Recently, Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso witnessed a series of raids to beef up the security arrangements against the backdrop of increased infiltration of Jihadists in these countries. The jihadists in turn are working to increase their rank and files to counter the attack from these countries.
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Last year, Rwanda deployed about 1,000 troops to northern Mozambique to help the country in its anti-jihadist fight. Rwandan troops have been among the most effective and frequently deployed for combat operations in northern Mozambique.
