This briefing paper delves into the driving forces behind foreign influence in West Africa’s security sector, examining the impact of established external powers on the region. With a focus on economic partnerships, trade relations, and the growing presence of non-state actors, the paper aims to uncover the motivations and implications of these influences on security dynamics in the region. By analysing the evolving alliances and investments in security, the paper seeks to provide insights into the complexities of addressing non-state actors and maintaining regime security in West Africa.

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Dataphyte has just released a policy brief on the dynamics of foreign influence in West Africa’s security sector, focusing on the role of the West, Russia, and China.

Titled “Foreign Influence in West Africa’s Security Sector: The West, Russia, and China”, the report examined the drivers of foreign influence in West Africa’s security sector and analysed the evolution in the role of state actors in the security landscape of the region.

The lingering security concerns and the recent coups in West Africa have highlighted the need to assess the dynamics of security in the region. While there is a consistent call for African countries to explore indigenous solutions to their development challenges, there is a growing concern in the region’s relationship with external powers such as China, Russia, Germany, Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, and the United States. 

The report also dissects prevailing scepticism among African citizens on the region’s historical ties with Western allies and the new orientation that now informs their actions and activities. 

Furthermore, the report interrogated the activities of terrorist groups in Africa and how they shape the region’s decisions on security. It also examined how the security peculiarities in the West African region have shifted the role of ECOWAS from ensuring economic integration among member states to maintaining peace and stability.

The report concluded that while the influence wielded by foreign powers on the region’s security sector is unlikely to abate, well-developed strategies can create avenues for win-win engagement between domestic actors and foreign partners.

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