Sahel

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Chad announced this Saturday, August 21, that it had withdrawn half of its troops deployed in February within the G5 Sahel's anti-jihadist force in the so-called "three borders" area, the border areas of Mali, Niger and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.…

The death toll of an attack on civilians and soldiers in northern Burkina Faso has risen to 80, the government said in a statement on Thursday. The attack occurred on Wednesday when Islamist militants attacked a…

The Sahelian countries, affected by the jihadist phenomenon, are closely following the situation and recent events in Afghanistan, where the Taliban took control last weekend. Part of the population fears that the Afghan scenario will be repeated in their own country. However, the two situations are different, although there are also points of convergence. As? We've talking about it this morning with Jean-Hervé Jézéquel, Head of the Sahel Project at the International Crisis Group (ICG). He is a guest of Magali Lagrange.…

Suspected jihadists killed 47 people, including 30 civilians, in an attack on a convoy in northern Burkina Faso, the government said on Wednesday. The assault left 14 people dead and three militia volunteers 25…