Saudi-backed counter-terrorism Coalition delivers military equipment to Togo's special forces

The Islamic Military Counter Terrorism Coalition (IMCTC) has launched an initiative in Lomé to provide military equipment to Togo's specialized counter-terrorism forces, the Saudi-backed organisation announced Tuesday, a concrete show of support for a country facing a growing jihadist threat on its northern frontier.

IMCTC Secretary-General Major General Mohammed Al-Moghedi met with Togo's Minister of Security and Civil Protection Calixte Batossie Madjoulba to discuss ways to enhance cooperation and coordination in combating terrorism and extremism. 

The two officials also reviewed topics of mutual interest related to strengthening regional security and stability.

The timing of the initiative is significant. Togo's northern regions, particularly the Savanes region bordering Burkina Faso, have experienced a sharp increase in jihadist incursions by armed groups operating from Burkina Faso, where the military junta has struggled to contain the expansion of JNIM and Islamic State affiliates despite the presence of Russian mercenaries.

These groups have repeatedly crossed into Togolese territory, attacking villages, military posts and civilian populations, forcing thousands to flee and creating a humanitarian crisis that has left the country hosting some 60,000 refugees in its north. 

The Togolese armed forces have responded with increasing operational intensity, but the threat remains persistent and evolving.

Equipment and operational readiness

The IMCTC equipment initiative directly addresses this challenge, strengthening the operational capabilities and readiness of Togo's counter-terrorism units, forces that are on the front line of a conflict that risks spilling further south into the Gulf of Guinea coastal states.

The meeting fits into the coalition's broader strategy of reinforcing cooperation with member states and integrating global counter-terrorism efforts, recognising that the Sahel's instability is not a regional problem, but a global one.