The drills involve troops from Niger, Mali, Burkina Faso, Togo, and Chad.
Launched on May 20th in the Tilia region’s Special Forces Training Center, Tarhanakal aims to enhance “interoperability and cooperation” between participating forces, according to the Nigerien army.
The exercise goes beyond tactical maneuvers. It incorporates initiatives to build trust and positive relations with the local population. Over 1,000 civilians have received free medical consultations, and 300 more have benefitted from surgical, eye, or dental procedures.
Tarhanakal, concluding on June 3rd, strengthens military ties particularly relevant for Niger, Mali, and Burkina Faso – all members of the Sahel Alliance. This regional body fosters closer economic and security cooperation in the face of ongoing jihadist activity.