Benin’s small armed forces are adapting to rising Islamist and maritime threats amid limited resources and gradual military modernisation efforts.

Rebuilt after years of instability, Côte d’Ivoire’s armed forces are strengthening professionalism and expanding their regional security responsibilities.

A cornerstone of West African security, Ghana’s military balances modernisation with strong peacekeeping commitments and growing regional operational responsibilities.

Small but strategically vital, Seychelles’ forces focus on maritime security and counter-piracy, supported heavily by international defence partnerships.