Burkina Faso Issues First AES Passport

February 3, 2025

(3 Minutes Read)

The political leadership and civil society in these countries believe that the AES passport will help combat the spread of misinformation about the region. Many are optimistic that the new travel document will provide a clearer picture of their countries’ capabilities and potential.

Burkina Faso has become the first country to issue the new AES passport, immediately after the country’s exit from ECOWAS along with Niger, and Mali.

This symbolic moment is a step towards strengthening unity among the three countries, given their departure from the West African Economic and Monetary Union (ECOWAS).

Many see the AES passport, which is now being produced at the migration division in Ouagadougou, as a tool that could simplify travel and foster deeper connections between the three nations. The passport’s production became operational at the beginning of the week, marking a key step in implementing the AES framework.

There are discussions about the broader implications of this transition, especially regarding relations with other ECOWAS countries. One of the primary concerns is the potential for high customs fees to continue affecting travel between Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger.

Despite these concerns, many people in Ouagadougou are hopeful that the AES passport will not only make travel easier but also provide opportunities to lower trade barriers and boost the economy across the three countries.

ECOWAS has stated that it remains open to dialogue and cooperation with the AES countries. While the three nations are taking steps towards greater regional independence, the relationship between them and ECOWAS is far from over.