Africa

South African President Cyril Ramaphosa is set to meet with U.S. President Donald Trump at the White House this week. Their agenda? A wide-ranging discussion on bilateral, regional, and global issues that matter deeply to both nations. Yet, as the anticipation builds, so does the strain between their administrations. It's crucial to ask: what are the underlying currents driving this tension? The backdrop of this high-stakes meeting is a complex tapestry woven with threads of geopolitical dynamics and domestic policies. In…

In a notable shift in strategy, U.S. envoys stationed in Africa will now be evaluated based on the commercial agreements they facilitate, rather than the volume of aid distributed. This change, articulated by a senior official from the State Department, reflects a burgeoning focus on economic collaboration rather than traditional assistance. Historically, many African nations have been among the largest recipients of U.S. aid. However, under former President Trump’s policies, particularly those leaning towards economic…

In a significant turn of events, former President Ali Bongo and his family have arrived in Luanda, the vibrant capital of Angola, following their recent release from Gabonese authorities. This marks a pivotal moment for the Bongo family, who have endured tumultuous times since a coup deposed Ali Bongo and reshaping the political landscape of Gabon. The aftermath of the coup, which took place in August 2023, saw tragic repercussions for many. Among those affected were Sylvia and Noureddin Bongo, Ali's wife and son, who…

In a poignant moment of cultural restoration, Finland has returned a ceremonial stool known as the kataklè to Benin. This act of restitution follows over 130 years since the piece was taken by French troops and subsequently transferred to the National Museum of Finland. The three-legged royal chair, emblematic of the former Kingdom of Dahomey, resurfaced after a diligent investigation into its whereabouts. The stool, an integral part of Dahomey’s royal heritage, had been in storage in Finland since 1939, following an…

Until recently, the United States' President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR) played a pivotal role in South Africa’s healthcare landscape, funding roughly 17% of the nation’s HIV budget. Yet, in the wake of significant cuts during the Trump administration, particularly targeting USAID—the world’s foremost donor organization dedicated to health and humanitarian assistance—South Africa found itself grappling with an unexpected funding crisis. Relations between South Africa and the U.S. grew increasingly…

In light of the escalating instability in the Sahel and evolving geopolitical dynamics in countries such as Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger, the United States is working diligently to reinforce its connections in West Africa. A pivotal aspect of this effort is the establishment of a drone base in Côte d'Ivoire's bustling capital, Abidjan. This initiative is anything but a mere strategic exercise. It signals America's commitment to bolster security collaborations while addressing significant threats facing the…

Reimagining U.S.-Africa Partnerships: A Strategic Shift On May 14, 2025, a pivotal announcement emerged from Abidjan, marking a significant turning point in how the U.S. engages with the African continent. The U.S. Africa Bureau unveiled a dynamic strategy that places trade outcomes, private-sector investment, and viable partnerships at the forefront of its foreign policy agenda. This bold move reflects not just a shift in diplomatic posture but a recognition of Africa's vital role in the global economy. In his…

Tidjane Thiam, a prominent figure in Ivorian politics, has unexpectedly resumed his role as the leader of the country’s foremost opposition party. This surprising turn of events occurred just days after he had stepped down from the position. Following legal complications that emerged with his presidential aspirations for the upcoming October elections, Thiam initially announced his resignation from the Democratic Party of Côte d'Ivoire - African Democratic Rally. At 62, his political journey has taken a tumultuous path,…

The commitment of the Trump administration to bolster U.S. exports to Africa is not merely a political statement; it is a clarion call for transformation. “We aim to elevate U.S. exports and investments in Africa, eliminate trade deficits, and foster mutual prosperity,” shared Ambassador Troy Fitrell, currently leading the Africa Bureau at the State Department. His remarks were made during an American Chambers of Commerce gathering in the vibrant city of Abidjan, a place rich with opportunity yet often overlooked. This…

In a surprising turn of events, a distinguished diplomat has officially declared his candidacy for the presidency ahead of the 2026 elections. Essa Bokarr Sey, a seasoned figure who has represented The Gambia in various capacities—most notably as ambassador to France, Taiwan, and the USA—stands at the forefront of this political endeavor. However, his announcement does not occur in a vacuum. It emerges against a backdrop of significant controversy surrounding the recent revisions to the national constitution. The original…