This book presents the reality of democratic reversals and waves of coups cutting through

Africa, explores the political economy of coups, and through a case study

approach, provides a nuanced analysis of the negative impacts of coups in

Africa, and interrogates the roles of African regional organisations in

curtailing coups and foreign powers in distorting the security architecture of

African states, particularly in the Sahel region. It proffers sustainable

policy templates for political development, professionalism of the military,

and the subsequent withdrawal of the military from African politics. Apart from

its policy relevance, it will serve as a resource pool for researchers working

in the area of African political development, peace and security, and security

sector reforms. With the incremental exit of France from the Sahel, the book

will also offer a nuanced perspective on the 'scramble for the soul' of the

Sahel by non-Western powers, such as China, Russia, Turkey, and Saudi Arabia.