External Relations

Benin has recently appointed acclaimed American filmmaker Spike Lee, alongside his wife, producer and author Tonya Lewis Lee, as ambassadors dedicated to connecting with African-Americans in the United States. Their mission transcends mere symbolism; it aims to strengthen bonds between Benin and the diaspora, while fostering cultural tourism and supporting initiatives that guide individuals back to their ancestral roots. This important announcement took place during the couple's visit to Benin's vibrant capital, Cotonou,…

The International Criminal Court (ICC) has delivered a significant verdict regarding Patrice-Edouard Ngaïssona, the former head of football for the Central African Republic (CAR). He has been found guilty of 28 counts of war crimes and crimes against humanity. This ruling marks a pivotal moment in the ongoing pursuit of justice as it reflects the court's commitment to addressing the atrocities committed during a brutal conflict that has scarred the nation. In a trial that spanned nearly four years, more than 170 witnesses…

The recent decision by the UK government to slash foreign aid spending by a staggering 40% has raised a wave of concerns regarding its ramifications for humanitarian efforts, particularly across the African continent. This significant budget reduction has sent ripples of anxiety through various sectors, notably health and education. The Prime Minister described this juncture as a "painful choice," a term that may indeed resonate with those on the front lines of aid work. This move mirrors a troubling trend initiated by past…

In a significant move, the United States has deported five individuals identified as "criminal illegal aliens" to Eswatini. These men hail from diverse backgrounds, including Vietnam, Jamaica, Laos, Cuba, and Yemen. Their criminal histories are troubling; convicted of grave offenses ranging from murder to child rape, these deportees have become the center of a complex diplomatic situation. Tricia McLaughlin, a spokesperson for Homeland Security, stated that the men’s home countries had declined to accept them, leading the…

The situation in Cabo Delgado has reached a critical crescendo, as the relentless surge in violence continues to undermine access to healthcare for countless vulnerable communities. It’s hard to fathom the scale of suffering that has unfolded over nearly eight years. Since the onset of this conflict, more than 400,000 individuals have been forcibly uprooted from their homes. Along with the displacement, medical services are shrinking, and the mobility of healthcare professionals is severely restricted. Where go the healers…

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…

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…

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…

Burundi has proudly joined the ranks of the few nations that have successfully eradicated trachoma, a debilitating tropical affliction. This disease, which spreads through personal contact, contaminated surfaces, and the involvement of flies, has long plagued vulnerable communities. Now, Burundi stands as the eighth country in the region to declare victory over trachoma, marking a significant milestone in public health. Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, the Director-General of the World Health Organization, acknowledged this…

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…