Africa

France has officially returned its last military base in Senegal, signaling the conclusion of a 65-year military presence. This significant withdrawal leaves the French armed forces without any permanent installations in West and Central Africa. It is a poignant moment, considering the broader trend of former colonies increasingly distancing themselves from their historical colonizers. At the heart of this transition is President Bassirou Diomaye Faye, who took office in 2024 with a resolute promise: to ensure that all…

Abahlali baseMjondolo has taken a firm stand against groups such as Operation Dudula, which have been unfairly targeting migrants as the scapegoats for South Africa's pressing economic dilemmas. It's a poignant example of how societal pressures can be directed towards the most vulnerable among us. As the saying goes, “It's easier to blame others than to face the truth.” In this instance, are we not witnessing a diversion of responsibility? Operation Dudula's campaign has notably included denying migrants access to…

In the verdant landscapes of Rwanda's southern province, the air hums with the excitement of newfound possibilities. Recent discoveries of lithium deposits have ignited the hopes of mining companies, elevating the nation into the spotlight of global mining ventures. After months of meticulous drilling, the preliminary results unveiled what experts refer to as a "high-grade lithium" presence, creating buzz not only among investors but also within various industries. Aterian Plc, one of the key players in this exploration…

Equatorial Guinea is actively advocating for a petition submitted to the International Criminal Court (ICJ), aiming to block the French government's sale of a high-value property owned by Vice President Teodoro Nguema Obiang Mangue. This residence was seized in 2021, following his conviction under French legislation that targets wealth illicitly acquired by foreign leaders. The stakes are high, both politically and financially. The response from Equatorial Guinea's ambassador to France, Carmelo Nvono-Ncá, has been…

Activists are rallying for a stay-at-home strike as they gear up for their next protest concerning escalating fuel and transportation costs. Tensions flared recently when protesters in Luanda faced police intervention, with rubber bullets and tear gas leaving several injured and prompting numerous arrests. On the ground, hundreds of demonstrators from diverse backgrounds came together: taxi drivers, students, street vendors, and passionate members of civil society. United by shared grievances, they marched peacefully…

The disparities in how fragility is defined point to significant shortcomings in our understanding of conflict and vulnerability. This situation begs the question: how can we refine our global metrics to better encompass the complexities of fragile states? A revealing report by the World Bank classifies Fragile and Conflict-Affected Situations (FCS) as nations grappling with weak institutions, persistent violence, or challenges in post-conflict recovery. But what does being ‘fragile’ truly mean for the people…

The Liberian government has firmly stated that it has not received any formal request to accept illegal migrants from the United States. This declaration follows widespread public unease stirred by media reports indicating that five African leaders who visited the White House on July 9 were allegedly approached by the administration of former President Donald Trump regarding the acceptance of deportees. The implications of this situation are complex, raising numerous questions about the responsibility of nations and the…

In a solemn gathering, prominent political leaders, respected traditional rulers, and dignitaries have converged in Katsina State to pay their final respects to former President Muhammadu Buhari. His passing at age 82 occurred in a London hospital, after a prolonged battle with illness, invoking a deep sense of loss across the nation. His remains were flown back to Nigeria aboard a Nigerian Air Force (NAF) aircraft, a gesture fitting for a leader of his stature. As preparations unfold for a state burial, Buhari's interment…

For the second time this year, the United States has notably missed a significant G20 finance meeting held in South Africa. This absence not only raises diplomatic eyebrows but also dims the prospects of Africa firmly establishing its role in global economic governance. One might wonder, what does this say about the evolving dynamics of international relations and Africa’s voice in the broader economic conversation? This unexpected absence from such crucial forums like G20 meetings in Durban and Cape Town points to a…

President Paul Biya has officially declared his intention to run for another term in the upcoming presidential elections. This announcement, which surfaced on social media, has ignited discussions and concerns regarding his advancing age and health. Biya, who has been at the helm of Cameroon since 1982, took over President Paul Biya has officially announced his candidacy for the upcoming presidential elections. This declaration, made through social media, has rekindled ongoing concerns about his advancing age and health.…