Sahel

Foreign ministers from Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso convened on Saturday, plunging into the region's formidable dilemmas like terrorism, unstable political landscapes, and rocky relations with the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS). This earnest discourse unfurled against the backdrop of the Antalya Diplomacy Forum in its namesake Turkish city. The gathering unfurled as "Sahel: The Future of Regional Integration," graced by the notable presence of Mali's Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation…

In a world where economic tides can shift with the whisper of a policy change, recent developments in West Africa are a textbook example of how regional dynamics can flex and reshape our shared narratives. Joel Ahofodji, a voice many have come to recognize in diplomatic corridors, confirmed on Wednesday that the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) will assemble an Extraordinary Council on April 22. The agenda? To grapple with the multifaceted challenge posed by the new import duty, among other…

The new import duty imposed on ECOWAS states is set to take effect immediately. Its intention is, ostensibly, to finance activities within the Sahel countries, leaving many curious minds questioning: What are these activities? Why now? This levy arrives at a significant crossroads for West African trade. For decades, the region has thrived on the principle of open exchanges as a bedrock of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS). Now, this pillar seems to be wavering. Consider…

A recent investigation conducted by the Institute for Security Studies (ISS) sheds light on a complex web of challenges facing the Sahel region. The study indicates that, while a direct link between climate change and terrorism may not be readily apparent, the effects of climate change on agricultural production and natural resource distribution can set the stage for local conflicts. These disruptions, stemming from shifting weather patterns, often lead communities to compete fiercely for essential resources. Consider, for…

The recent expulsion of French troops from Côte d'Ivoire signals a significant shift in the geopolitical landscape of West Africa. This move follows a similar withdrawal from Chad earlier this year and mirrors actions taken by Niger, Mali, and Burkina Faso—countries that have exhibited a growing discontent with French military presence. Could this be the death knell for French influence in the Sahel region? To understand the implications of this trend, one must delve into the intricate tapestry of historical relations.…

How significant can a piece of cloth be, one might wonder, until it's draped across shoulders symbolizing regional unity amidst political shifts? This was the atmosphere on Monday when President Assimi Goïta of Mali was ceremoniously handed a flag representing the Confederation of Sahel States. The occasion, a grand affair, brought together dignitaries and ministers, all present to witness a small yet significant moment of history. The flag, admired by many, was described as “a very beautiful flag that will be brought to…

An undated video with Olivier Dubois has been circulating on social networks since Sunday. Malian sources claim that it seems genuine. In the video of about one minute, the French journalist who was abducted on April 8, 2021 in Gao addresses his relatives and…

Where do the weapons used by armed groups in the Sahel come from? A study published on Monday, August 23 by the NGO Amnesty International reveals that the Sahel branch of the Islamic State and JNIM linked to al-Qaeda use weapons for European production and in particular Serbian. Amnesty also points out that they are used by pro-government militias and refers to illegal armed groups for these groups.…

Chad announced this Saturday, August 21, that it had withdrawn half of its troops deployed in February within the G5 Sahel's anti-jihadist force in the so-called "three borders" area, the border areas of Mali, Niger and Burkina Faso. An announcement by the Chadian government spokesman Abderaman Koulamallah, which minimizes this withdrawal.…

In tonight's show, Kenya's court of appeals rejects contested offer to amend the country's constitution, after multiple deadly attacks in recent weeks, we discuss the security situation in the Sahel region, and we meet the disabled musicians of DR Congo who are planning a return and trial.…