Mali has renamed ECOWAS Avenue in its capital to AES Avenue, in honor of the Alliance of Sahel States (AES), which includes Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger. This move reflects the country’s effort to strengthen unity and sovereignty among central Sahel nations.

The renaming is part of a broader initiative by Malian authorities to redefine public spaces and reinforce a sense of national pride. Several streets and institutions have also been renamed to commemorate significant figures in Mali’s history.

While some citizens view the change as a patriotic step forward, others have expressed mixed opinions, reflecting differing perspectives on the symbolism and timing of the initiative.