Central Africa

The recent statements made by Aliou Touankara, a member of Mali's National Transitional Council, unveil a growing frustration within Bamako regarding Ukraine amid escalating geopolitical tensions in the Sahel region. This sentiment is not just a fleeting reaction but an indicator of the ripple effects that international conflicts can have on local politics. “I believe the first step has already been taken—diplomatic relations with Ukraine have been severed. It would also be prudent to consider banning Ukrainian…

The U.S. and Rwanda's Ongoing Negotiations: A Push for Peace in the DRC Recent sources close to the diplomatic discussions have revealed significant U.S. pressure on Rwanda to halt its military activities in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). This effort comes as the region continues to grapple with instability exacerbated by armed groups and foreign interventions. The stakes are high, as the lives of countless civilians hang in the balance. Isn't it unsettling to consider the…

The ongoing turmoil in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) has given rise to a staggering humanitarian crisis, underscored by an alarming surge in sexual violence against women and children. Recent statistics reveal that over 67,000 cases of rape and sexual assault were documented in just the first quarter of 2025. How did we arrive at such a harrowing juncture? In this heart-wrenching context, nearly 500 incidents of sexual abuse are reported weekly, involving more than 150 children. The sheer numbers are not…

In the vibrant heart of Douala, Cameroon, the air buzzed with anticipation as the local police concluded a two-day surveillance of an apartment block where the prominent opposition leader, Maurice Kamto, had been residing. Having just returned from a politically charged rally in France, Kamto’s presence in the city ignited tensions with the ruling party. Was it a simple visit, or was he a looming threat to their political foundation? The stakes felt alarmingly high. As you weave through the bustling streets of Douala, a…

Understanding the High Cost of Living in Africa: A Crucial Economic Challenge In recent years, the issue of rising living costs has emerged as a formidable challenge faced by many African nations. Though global inflation and shifts in the market play their part, it's important to understand that factors such as poor economic management, currency devaluation, the elimination of subsidies, and an excessive dependence on imports have significantly worsened the situation. As we explore this critical topic, we…

Russia's Deepening Ties with African Nations On a significant note this Monday, the Kremlin made a bold assertion: Russia is set to fortify its relationships with African countries, delving into sensitive domains such as defense and security. This announcement comes at a time when global dynamics are shifting, making one ponder—what might this mean for the nations involved and the broader geopolitical landscape? Most notably, this declaration follows the withdrawal of the Wagner Group, a…

In a decisive moment for Gabon’s economic future, President Brice Oligui Nguema has put forth an ambitious initiative aimed at industrializing the nation’s economy. This initiative isn’t just a flash in the pan; it is a calculated effort to harness Gabon's vast natural resources, transforming them into high-value goods that can benefit the entire population. As he articulated during his announcement, Oligui envisions a Gabon that thrives on its own merits, moving beyond mere extraction and embarking on a journey of true…

Ambassadorial Ties and the Unpaid Ground Rent Dilemma in Nigeria In recent months, the issue of unpaid ground rent by foreign embassies in Nigeria has captured the attention of the public and government alike. A report from The PUNCH indicated that diplomatic missions in Nigeria have collectively amassed over ₦3.6 million in unpaid ground rent since 2014, which raises questions about accountability and diplomatic responsibility. This situation, which constitutes a concerning breach of land lease agreements with the Federal…

The landscape of international travel is complex, particularly when it intersects with national security policies. As we navigate the intricacies of recent travel bans affecting several nations, it's crucial to recognize that the door isn't entirely closed for everyone from these restricted countries wishing to enter the United States. Indeed, specific exceptions exist, crafted with great care, reflecting the balance between security and humanitarian needs. These exemptions often arise from a rich tapestry of…

Rwanda’s recent departure from the Economic Community of Central African States (ECCAS) marks a significant shift in its regional engagements. Citing persistent violations of its member rights, Rwanda contends that the organization has strayed from its foundational principles, calling into question its effectiveness and integrity. Just as Rwanda was poised to take on the chairmanship—a role that rotates among the eleven member states—it withdrew, implying that this leadership position would inadvertently allow the…