trade

In a decisive moment for Gabon’s economic future, President Brice Oligui Nguema has put forth an ambitious initiative aimed at industrializing the nation’s economy. This initiative isn’t just a flash in the pan; it is a calculated effort to harness Gabon's vast natural resources, transforming them into high-value goods that can benefit the entire population. As he articulated during his announcement, Oligui envisions a Gabon that thrives on its own merits, moving beyond mere extraction and embarking on a journey of true…

As the nation gears up for its impending presidential elections in just a few months, uncertainty looms over the political landscape. President Alassane Ouattara has yet to announce whether he will seek a new term, leaving citizens and political analysts alike in suspense. Adding to this uncertainty is a cloud of disqualification that currently shadows several prominent opposition leaders. Notably, former President Laurent Gbagbo remains a polarizing figure; his past adds complexity to any political maneuvering. Then…

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…

Rwanda’s recent departure from the Economic Community of Central African States (ECCAS) marks a significant shift in its regional engagements. Citing persistent violations of its member rights, Rwanda contends that the organization has strayed from its foundational principles, calling into question its effectiveness and integrity. Just as Rwanda was poised to take on the chairmanship—a role that rotates among the eleven member states—it withdrew, implying that this leadership position would inadvertently allow the…

Upcoming Talks Between U.S. and China: What’s at Stake In a highly anticipated meeting, Secretary of the Treasury Scott Bessent, Secretary of Commerce Howard Lutnick, and Trade Representative Jamieson Greer are set to meet with representatives from China in London on Monday. This dialogue represents a crucial step in U.S.-China relations, which have faced significant challenges in recent years. President Donald Trump recently expressed optimism about these discussions in a social media post, stating, "The meeting should…

On a pivotal day, Burundians cast their votes to shape the future of their parliament. With the ruling party positioned to secure a dominant victory, the political landscape appears decidedly lopsided. This comes on the heels of a notable development: the main opposition party, the National Freedom Council (CNL), was effectively barred from participating in this electoral process. How does one reconcile democracy with such blatant exclusion? The CNL, which emerged as the runner-up in the contentious 2020 elections, had its…

The Liberia National Police has taken a significant step in the investigation surrounding the devastating fire that engulfed the Capitol Building—the heart of the Liberian Legislature—in December 2024. Several members of the House of Representatives have been summoned as persons of interest, raising eyebrows and questions about the implications of this inquiry. A communication sent directly to Speaker of the House Richard Koon outlines the police's request for a meeting with specific lawmakers. This unexpected development…

In a significant turn of events, Chad’s President Mahamat Déby has taken a bold step by suspending all visas for U.S. citizens. This decision, framed as a matter of "reciprocity," follows the revelation that the United States has blacklisted Chad and eleven other nations, barring their citizens from entry. The context is critical: in a sweeping travel ban recently enacted by former President Donald Trump, seven out of the twelve affected countries hail from Africa. This sweeping measure was justified by claims of…

Former President Edgar Lungu has passed away at the age of 68 while receiving medical care in South Africa. His untimely departure has cast a pall over the nation, igniting a flurry of emotions among citizens who once rallied behind his leadership. Lungu ascended to the presidency in 2015, taking the helm as Zambia's sixth head of state. His tenure was characterized by ambitious infrastructure developments, from sweeping road projects to new schools and hospitals. Yet, it was also a time when Zambia's financial burdens…

The recent visit of former President Joseph Kabila to the rebel-occupied eastern regions of the Democratic Republic of Congo has ignited a firestorm of debate. Officials in Kinshasa have leveled serious accusations, suggesting that Kabila may be providing covert support to the M23 rebel coalition. A high-ranking member of the ruling party recently remarked that Kabila's "unexpected" alliance with a group he once opposed raises eyebrows, hinting that there is "an underlying agenda" at play. This has left the government on…