United States

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,…

Just a week remained before pioneering trials for an HIV vaccine were set to commence in South Africa. Optimism was palpable; perhaps another stride in mitigating one of the deadliest pandemics was within reach. Then, like a thunderclap in clear skies, an email arrived. It instructed cessation of all activities. The United States, guided by the Trump administration, was pulling its funding. This news hit like a sledgehammer in a region grappling with the highest concentration of HIV cases globally. Their research…

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 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…

Rwanda and DRC Sign Peace Agreement with U.S. Mediation In a moment of cautious optimism, Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) have signed a peace agreement in Washington, mediated by the United States. This accord aims to quell the long-standing conflicts that have resulted in the loss of countless lives. With the two nations pledging to curtail support for guerrillas, President Donald Trump took the opportunity to highlight the potential mineral wealth, calling it a significant achievement. "Today, the…

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…

During a recent meeting at the White House, President Donald Trump commended Liberian President Joseph Boakai for his remarkable command of the English language. This encounter, which also included leaders from five other African nations, showcased a moment of genuine appreciation. Trump expressed admiration, even inquiring about how Boakai honed his impressive language skills. Yet, beneath this seemingly innocent praise lies a deeper narrative that deserves scrutiny. Critics swiftly seized upon this incident, interpreting…

President Cyril Ramaphosa has taken a firm stance against the recently imposed 30% tariff by U.S. President Donald Trump. He characterizes this decision as a "unilateral" action that lacks solid backing from trade data. Announced to take effect on August 1, this tariff highlights a peculiar dynamic, as South Africa is the only sub-Saharan nation singled out in Trump's proclamation. This distinction underscores a complicated and often strained relationship between the two leaders. In a letter addressed to Ramaphosa, Trump…

Next week promises to be a pivotal moment in international relations as U.S. President Donald Trump embarks on his first significant diplomatic initiative focused on Africa since re-entering the political arena. A summit of this magnitude raises important questions: What will be the outcome of these discussions? What implications will this gathering have on U.S.-Africa relations moving forward? The meeting is set to convene five esteemed African leaders: President Joseph Nyuma Boakai of Liberia, President Bassirou Diomaye…

The 2025 U.S.-Africa Business Summit in Luanda provided a remarkable platform for transformative dialogue and strategic engagements that are poised to redefine economic partnerships between the United States and Africa. This gathering was nothing short of historic, as it brought together an unprecedented number of Heads of State and Government. Twelve leaders—among them Presidents and Prime Ministers from various African nations—graced the summit, amplifying its significance. This summit wasn’t just marked by the…