EAST AFRICA

Nigerian Foreign Minister Yusuf Tuggar recently articulated a growing tension between Nigeria and the United States regarding the repatriation of Venezuelan migrants. He emphasized that the Nigerian government is feeling substantial pressure from Washington to accept these deportees. “Our refusal to comply might very well have influenced the U.S. decision to impose a 10% tariff on our exports,” Tuggar remarked, alluding to an intricate geopolitical dance that impacts both nations. In an era where international…

In a significant turn of events, Uganda has officially reopened its border points with the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), specifically at Bunagana and Mupaka. This development comes after a troubling four-year hiatus imposed by geopolitical tensions. The closing of these vital passageways in late January followed the M23 rebel group’s takeover of Goma, the heart of North Kivu Province. Such a disruption cast a long shadow over the region. Bunagana stands at the frontline of economic interaction, resting cheek-by-jowl…

The recent peace agreement facilitated by the United States between Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo unfolded against the backdrop of a less explored narrative. As noted by Edward DeMarco, a strategist and commentator on African affairs, “Behind last week's U.S-brokered peace deal between Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo is a hidden storyline: Togo's quest to become West Africa's Rwanda.” This intriguing comparison draws attention to the ambitions of this small West African nation. How did Togo, a…

On June 27, a momentous event is set to unfold: the foreign ministers of the Democratic Republic of Congo and Rwanda will ink a peace agreement that could redefine the trajectory of their enduring conflict. This accord is not merely a piece of paperwork; it symbolizes hope emerging from years of turmoil marked by violence and loss. The stark reality of the region’s past cannot be overstated. For nearly three decades, armed conflict has wreaked havoc, resulting in unimaginable suffering. The forthcoming agreement explicitly…

Victoire Ingabire, a prominent figure in the Rwandan opposition, recently made headlines by revealing that she has been summoned by a High Court judge. This summons is tied to a trial concerning nine individuals accused of treason—a matter that has stirred significant debate within both political and social spheres. Ingabire shared this development on X (formerly Twitter), expressing her anticipation for further details about the proceedings. The judge’s interest in Ingabire appears to stem from the numerous references to…

This Father’s Day, an ode echoed from Namibia to Kenya, resonating with profound truths about the pivotal role of fathers in our lives. Namibian President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah articulated a heartfelt reminder: in an era increasingly fraught with challenges, when children often find themselves on precarious paths, the influence of fathers as positive exemplars is indispensable. This statement raises an important question—what exactly makes a father a role model? Is it just their presence, or is it the way they navigate…

The administration of President Donald Trump is reportedly contemplating a travel ban affecting nationals from an additional 36 countries. Alarmingly, 25 of these nations are located in Africa, as detailed in recent communications from the State Department. These outlines enumerate a multitude of concerns, urging the involved countries to implement corrective measures within a stipulated timeframe. Earlier this month, the president enacted a proclamation that barred citizens from 12 specific countries from entering the…

Tragedy struck in the northwestern region of Equateur Province as at least 30 lives were lost when a boat capsized, sending ripples of sorrow throughout the community. Rescue teams are diligently combing the waters in a frantic effort to locate dozens of individuals still unaccounted for. Local officials suspect that overcrowding, coupled with the treacherous weather conditions, may have contributed to this heart-wrenching incident. In the Democratic Republic of the Congo, rivers and lakes serve as vital arteries for…

In a dramatic culmination of Burundi's recent parliamentary election, the ruling CNDD-FDD party has captured all 100 seats, boasting an overwhelming 96% of the total votes across the nation. This undeniable triumph, however, hasn’t come without controversy. While the electoral commission has reported only minor irregularities, opposition parties and various human rights organizations have voiced serious concerns regarding the integrity of the process. As we navigate the complexities of this electoral outcome, it prompts us…

In a surprising turn of events, the Wagner Group, a paramilitary organization known for its ties to the Kremlin, has announced its withdrawal from Mali. After more than three years of operations in the West African nation, the paramilitary firm claims to have fulfilled its mission. However, this departure raises a myriad of questions regarding the future of Russian military influence in the region. In a statement, Wagner declared its objectives “accomplished,” emphasizing its role in assisting the Malian military junta in…