Five African nations putting together a 5,000-strong force to fight the growing threat from extremists in the vast Sahel region appealed to the international community Tuesday for money, military equipment and logistical support. The leaders of Mali, Mauritania, Niger, Burkina Faso and Chad agreed in February to set up the joint military force. The budget for the force’s first year is 423 million euros, and the European Union has pledged 50 million euros. Each of the five countries will contribute 10 million euros, and France has pledged an additional 8 million euros in funds and logistical support. Konfourou said the Sahel force will complement those efforts and will co-ordinate with them.

Source: National Post August 15, 2017 21:56 UTC