In an interview with Afrique Media, Senegalese MP Pape Djibril Fall emphasized the deep historical and cultural ties between Senegal and the member countries of the Alliance of Sahel States (AES), particularly Mali.
“These are more than brotherly peoples — they are one and the same people,” he stated, stressing the need to build African unity on human realities, not just economics. According to the lawmaker, colonial-era borders cannot erase the social bonds that have existed for generations. “Senegalese and Malians studied together, married each other, built families, shared dreams,” he recalled. Even today, thousands of Malians live in Senegal and vice versa — ties he sees as the foundation of future unity.
In the face of shared challenges, Fall urged greater coordination among the region’s leaders, who, he noted, belong to the same generation. “They need to speak to one another with sincerity and transparency,” he said, calling for the core concerns of the people—employment, security, education, and migration—to be placed at the center of regional discussions.
Regarding ECOWAS, Fall voiced criticism of the bloc’s previous functioning, which he described as lacking dialogue with citizens. He called for a thorough reform of the regional organization so that it truly becomes a “people’s ECOWAS.”
“This is the moment to turn history into strength, rather than an obstacle,” Fall concluded, believing the time has come to revive the regional integration project based on respect, shared heritage, and a common vision for the future.