Photo Source: Sam Mednick, AP Photo
National Institute of Advanced Studies (NIAS)
Indian Institute of Science Campus, Bangalore
For any further information or to subscribe to GP alerts send an email to subachandran@nias.res.in
NIAS Global Politics Database
Africa This Week (16-22 March)
NIAS Africa Team
|
In brief: Increasing violence in South Sudan
Anu Maria Joseph, Narmatha S and Vetriselvi Baskaran
Increasing violence in South Sudan
The major development in Africa this week is the increasing violence in South Sudan. On 19 March, the UN Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) released a report indicating a 35 per cent increase in the number of people affected by violence. It documented 233 violent incidents. 86 per cent of civilians are affected by inter-communal violence carried out by militias or civil defence groups. The head of UNMISS, Nicholas Haysom, stated: “Intercommunal conflict continues to cause immense harm to communities.”
Separately, on 20 March, BBC reported that at least 15 people were killed in a surprise attack by a rival community in the Boma county in South Sudan. Although the 2018 peace deal ended the civil war in South Sudan, the ethnic violence continues. Often, cattle raids are acts of revenge by ethnic groups including Murle, Anyuak, Nuer, and Dinkas. They have been fighting for land, resources and cattle for the past three years. The majority of the violence is part of the clashes between the two factions of the Dinka ethnic group, Twics and the Ngoks, in the Abeiy region bordering Sudan. Claim over the region is an unresolved issue between Sudan and South Sudan. According to BBC, more than 100 people including the UN peacekeepers have been killed in the violence this year. Besides, the region remains isolated from the governance apparatus.
Africa News-Database
16-22 March
ALGERIA
President reschedules election
On 22 March, BBC reported that Algerian President, Abdelmadjid Tebboune, preponed the presidential election by three months, rescheduling it to 7 September. The election was previously scheduled for December. Tebboune, who won 58 per cent of the vote in 2019 elections is yet to announce his candidacy.
LIBYA
65 migrant bodies found in graveyard
On 22 March, the International Organisation for Migration (IMO) reported the discovery of 65 bodies of migrant people who were found in a Libyan graveyard. The identification and cause of death remains unknown. It is suspected that they were smuggled through the Libyan desert and died while crossing it. Libya has been the main departure point for migrants to enter Europe through the Mediterranean Sea.
EGYPT
Migration agreement with the EU
On 18 March, according to the BBC, the EU and Egypt signed an agreement worth EUR 7.4 billion. It focuses on boosting cooperation in trade, and security and preventing the flow of migration to Europe. Grants, loans, and several funds are in line to address the sluggish Egypt’s economy which is the major reason for people moving to Europe. Egypt's President Abdul Fattah al-Sisi stated: "This shall encompass tackling the root-causes through development-focused solutions and improving regular migration routes."
SUDAN
Worst humanitarian disaster in recent years, says UN
On 20 March, the UN warned of the worst humanitarian tragedy in Sudan since the war that began in April 2023. The director of operations at the UN Office for Coordination for Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA), Edem Wosornu, stated that Sudan remains in the worst condition in meeting humanitarian needs, displaced people, and hunger crises. The UN's Ramadan ceasefire proposal was rejected by the warring parties. UN World Food Program (WFP) deputy executive director, Carl Skau, warned of a high risk of increased famine levels in May due to changing agricultural seasons. The power struggle between the rival forces, RSF and SAF, has led to eight million people being displaced, with 18 million facing acute food insecurity.
SOUTH SUDAN
Extreme heatwave hits the country
On 18 March, BBC reported on the chaotic weather conditions in South Sudan that led to the closure of schools. South Sudan has been hit by extreme heat waves as the temperature is expected to rise to 45C. Due to the El-Nino weather phenomenon, rains are expected after the heatwave that may cause flooding in the southern region.
UGANDA
Alert issued as ADF militants cross the border from DRC
On 19 March, BBC reported that security officials in Uganda were under alert as fighters from Allied Democratic Forces (ADF), an IS-linked group, entered the country from DR Congo. They suspected that the militants would target urban areas, holy places, schools, and public events and insisted the public remain cautious. The group conducts attacks, especially in schools, despite Ugandan Prime Minister Yoweri Museveni claiming the destruction of the group.
RWANDA
Refuge granted to 91 Libyans
On 22 March, Rwanda granted refuge to 91 asylum seekers from Libya under a programme backed by the UN’s refugee agency, the EU, and the AU. The refugees are from South Sudan, Ethiopia, Somalia, Sudan, and Eritrea. Since 2019, more than 2,150 refugees have arrived in Rwanda under the program, with over 1,600 resettled abroad.
KENYA
President signs controversial housing levy bill into law
On 19 March, Kenyan President William Ruto signed a controversial bill into law where people have to pay 1.5 per cent of their monthly income as a housing levy. Through the law, President Ruto aims to provide affordable houses for poorer Kenyans. However, a huge Kenyan population is against the law as it pressures and burdens them to pay high taxes. Previously, the levy was only for people in the formal sector who got a regular monthly wage. However, the new law includes levies for non-salary Kenyans in the informal sector as well. The government argues that increased taxation would develop the country and reduce the budget deficit.
EAST AFRICA
Eritrea and Somalia hold bilateral talks
On 18 March, BBC reported on the bilateral talks between the leaders of Eritrea and Somalia. Eritrean President Isaias Afwerki and Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud discussed the regional issues during the bilateral talks in the Eritrean capital Asmara. Eritrean Information Minister Yemane Meskel stated that the meeting included discussions on issues including militant problems in Somalia.
ZIMBABWE
Obtained free grain transfer from Russia
On 20 March, Zimbabwe received 250,000 tonnes of wheat and 23,000 tonnes of fertilizer from the Russian government and the Uralchem-Uralkali group of Russian companies. The donation is part of the free grain transfer program initiated by Russia in 2023. The programme supports drought-affected countries including Burkina Faso, Mali, Eritrea, Somalia, and the Central African Republic. Russia's ambassador to Zimbabwe, Nikolai Krasilnikov, described it as "humanitarian assistance.” He added: "Both deliveries were carried out in line with the implementation of the initiative of the President of the Russian Federation Vladimir Putin to assist African countries."
GHANA
Speaker condemns delayed signing of anti-LGBTQ+ bill
On 21 March, BBC reported that Ghana’s speaker disapproved of the intake of new ministers amidst President Akufo-Addo's delay in signing the anti-LGBTQ bill. He condemned the president's delay in signing the bill as 'contemptuous.’ The presidency has asked the bill to the table after the controversial claims and statements are resolved. The bill, which was introduced in February, criminalises identifying as LGBTQ+ and groups or individuals supporting the LGBTQ community.
SENEGAL
Foreign investors on alert ahead of elections
On 20 March, Al Jazeera reported that foreign investors in Senegal are on alert and keeping a close eye on Senegal's election due to prevailing political uncertainties and the unknown direction of the country's economy if the opposition wins. Opposition candidates Amadou Ba and Bassirou Diomaye Faye have proposed economic changes including the creation of new currencies and the renegotiation of mining and energy contracts. For foreign investors, Senegal has been the safest country in West Africa due to the peaceful transitions of power. Since the announcement of delayed elections, violent protests and the crackdown on the opposition, investors have been cautious.
NIGER
Suspends military cooperation with the US
On 17 March, Niger’s military spokesperson Colonel Amadou Abdramane announced the suspension of the military agreement with the US which allowed the latter to install military bases to operate in Niger. This immediate call-off came after the recent US delegates' visit. Abdramane stated: “Niger regrets the intention of the American delegation to deny the sovereign Nigerien people the right to choose their partners and types of partnerships capable of truly helping them fight against terrorism.” During the visit, the US delegates warned Niger of its increasing ties with Iran and Russia.
NIGERIA
87 people abducted in Kaduna
On 18 March, BBC reported that at least 87 people were abducted in the Kajuru region of Kaduna state. The abductees included women and children. According to the residents, the gunmen were dressed like military personnel. The report commented that authorities are incapable of addressing the daily abductions and mounts pressure on President Bola Tinubu.
Mega Solar plant commenced
On 20 March, BBC reported that Nigeria launched the Mega solar plant as part of its plan for transition to clean and renewable energy. It would be jointly built by the privately owned North South Power (NSP) company and the state-run Nigeria Sovereign Investment Authority (NSIA) in Shiroro region in the Niger state. While signing the agreement, Nigeria's Vice-President, Kashim Shettima, stated: "This is a pioneering project in terms of hybridizing power in solar and hydro."
INTERNATIONAL
Indian Navy rescues cargo vessels from pirates
On 16 March, the Indian Navy rescued a Maltese-flagged bulk carrier, MV Ruen, which was hijacked three months before. The merchant vessel was hijacked in December by the Somalian pirates with 17 crew members. According to the Navy, all the 35 pirates on board were forced to surrender and raided for the possession of illegal arms, ammunition and contraband. The hijacking of MV Ruen by Somali pirates in December marked their first successful operation since 2017.
About the authors
Anu Maria Joseph is a Research Associate at NIAS. Narmatha S and Vetriselvi Baskaran are Postgraduate Scholars at the University of Madras.
Bookmark |
NIAS Africa Team
Africa This Week (16-22 March)
NIAS Africa Team
Africa This Week
NIAS Africa Team
Africa This Week (1 March-7 March)
NIAS Africa Team
Africa This Week (24 February-29 February)
NIAS Africa Team
Africa This Week
NIAS Africa Team
Africa This Week (3-10 Feb 2024)
Jerry Franklin A
Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON): Five Questions
Narmatha S and Anu Maria Jospeh
Ethiopia-Somalia tensions over Somaliland | Explained
Anu Maria Joseph
Ethiopia and Sudan: Governance in deadlock
Nithyashree RB
COP28 and Africa: Priorities and Initiatives
Anu Maria Joseph
Sierra Leone: A failed coup
Jerry Franklin A
Floods in East Africa
Sneha Surendran
Africa’s debate on colonial reparations
Anu Maria Joseph
Sudan’s ceasefires remain elusive: Four reasons why
Nithyashree RB
Liberia elections: Explained
Jerry Franklin
France's increasing unpopularity in Niger
Anu Maria Joseph
Africa in the Indian Ocean region: Explained
Jerry Franklin A
Sudan: Escalated fighting between rival factions and its implications
Anu Maria Joseph
Taiwan in Africa: The Last Ally and the Lost Allies
Sneha Surendran
Africa Climate Summit: Rising new leadership in climate action
Nithyashree RB
Coup in Gabon: Three questions
NIAS Africa Team
Africa Weekly #78 | Coup in Gabon
NIAS Africa Team
Africa Weekly #77 | Profile on Ethiopia’s ethnic groups: Composition, Representation and Issues
Jerry Franklin A
A profile on Ethiopia's Oromo ethnic group
Sneha Surendran
A profile on Ethiopia’s Somali ethnic group
Nithyashree RB
A profile on Ethiopia’s Afar ethnic group
Anu Maria Joseph
Ethiopia’s Amhara problem
Jerry Franklin A
ECOWAS and Niger remain at an impasse, causing a prolonged standoff
NIAS Africa Team
Africa Weekly #75&76 | Ethiopia’s conflict in Amhara and Prolonged standoff in Niger
Jerry Franklin A
Coup in Niger: Manifold national, regional and international stances
Sneha Surendran
Senegal's political crisis: Four questions
NIAS Africa Team
Africa Weekly #73&74 | Coup in Niger and Senegal’s political crisis
Nithyashree RB
The UN in Africa: MINUSMA has failed. So did Mali
Devjyoti Saha
China-Africa Security Partnership: Expansion Across Spectrums
NIAS Africa Team
Africa Weekly #72 | End of MIUSMA in Mali and Chinese Security Interventions in Africa
Jerry Franklin A
A Profile of the Wagner group in Africa: From supporting military, authoritarian leaders to fighting militancy and mine licencing
Anu Maria Joseph
The Wagner Group in Africa: Fallouts of the failed revolt in Russia
NIAS Africa Team
Africa Weekly #69-71 | The Wagner Group in Africa
NIAS Africa Team
Africa Weekly #68 | Eritrea Rejoining IGAD and Resurging Insurgency in Uganda
Anu Maria Joseph
Resurging insurgency in Uganda and insecurity in East Africa
Jerry Franklin
Eritrea: Back to the IGAD after 16 years
NIAS Africa Team
Africa Weekly #67 | Persisting Ethnic Cleansing in Ethiopia's Tigray Region and a Political profile on Tunisia
Jerry Franklin
Tunisia: A Political Profile
NIAS Africa Team
Africa Weekly #66 | Ceasefires in Sudan & Cameroon’s Anglophone Crisis
Jerry Franklin
Cameroon’s Anglophone Crisis: Reasons for its continuation
Anu Maria Joseph
Ceasefires in Sudan: An uneasy trajectory
NIAS Africa Team
In Focus | Japan in Africa
Devjyoti Saha
Japan in Africa: Renewed Efforts to Revitalise Relations
NIAS Africa Team
Sudan: Intensifying political rivalry and expanding violence
NIAS Africa Team
IN FOCUS | Nigeria’s new wave of kidnappings: Who, why and what fallouts
NIAS Africa Team
Expanding Russia-South Africa relations
NIAS Africa Team
IN FOCUS | Tunisia: The question of undocumented migrants
NIAS Africa Team
IN FOCUS | Macron’s visit to Africa: Three Takeaways
NIAS Africa Team
IN FOCUS | Nigeria elections: Ruling party wins; What is ahead?
NIAS Africa Team
IN FOCUS | M23 atrocities in DRC and upcoming Nigeria elections
NIAS Africa Team
Africa in 2023: Elections and conflicts
NIAS Africa Team
IN FOCUS | Chinese Foreign Minister's visit to Africa
NIAS Africa Team
IN FOCUS | Bamako’s pardon of Ivorian soldiers
NIAS Africa Team
IN FOCUS | The relapse of ANC
NIAS Africa Team
The US-Africa Leaders Summit
NIAS Africa Team
IN FOCUS | The Wagner Group, exploitation of conflicts and increased dependency on Russia
NIAS Africa Team
IN FOCUS | End of Operation Barkhane
NIAS Africa Team
IN FOCUS | The ceasefire in Ethiopia
NIAS Africa Team
IN FOCUS | Challenges to peace in Eastern Congo
NIAS Africa Team
China-Africa relations: Looking back and looking ahead
NIAS Africa Team
IN FOCUS | Chad's political crisis
NIAS Africa Team
Floods in West Africa: Nigeria and beyond
NIAS Africa Team
IN FOCUS | Famine in Somalia
NIAS Africa Team
IN FOCUS | Kenya Elections 2022
NIAS Africa Team
IN FOCUS | The reinvention of Al Shabab
NIAS Africa Team
IN FOCUS | Lavrov's visit to Africa
NIAS Africa Team
IN FOCUS | Macron's visit to Africa
NIAS Africa Team
IN FOCUS | Tunisia's political crisis
NIAS Africa Team
Tunisia’s political crisis: Five questions
NIAS Africa Team
Tribal conflict in Blue Nile: Causes and Implications
NIAS Africa Team
Sudan-Ethiopia border tensions and a profile of Blaise Compaoré
NIAS Africa Team
Africa’s continuing migration problem: Three issues
NIAS Africa Team
Visit of the Belgium King to the DRC and tensions between the DRC and Rwanda
NIAS Africa Team
Africa’s displacement crises: Three key drivers
NIAS Africa Team
IN FOCUS | Into the Sixth Decade of African Unity
NIAS Africa Team
IN FOCUS | Communal Tensions in Ethiopia
NIAS Africa Team
IN FOCUS | Mali ends defence ties with France
NIAS Africa Team
IN FOCUS | UK-Rwanda asylum deal
NIAS Africa Team
IN FOCUS | Africa, Russia, and the War in Ukraine
NIAS Africa Team
IN FOCUS | The rise of East African Community: From the Atlantic to the Indian Ocean
NIAS Africa Team
IN FOCUS | Political Crisis in Tunisia
NIAS Africa Team
60 years of Algerian independence
NIAS Africa Team
In Focus: Libya
NIAS Africa Team
IN FOCUS | Europe and Africa: Will AU and EU be equal partners?
Anu Maria Joseph
Europe and Africa: Will AU and EU be equal partners?
Nireekshan Bollimpalli
Africa’s slow COVID vaccination continues. Four reasons why
NIAS Africa Team
IN FOCUS: Conflict over the Nile Dam
NIAS Africa Team
IN FOCUS: Instability in Burkina Faso
Mohamad Aseel Ummer
Africa: The anti-France sentiments in Mali and beyond
Apoorva Sudhakar
Coup in Burkina Faso: Five things to know
Harshita Rathore
Famine in Ethiopia: The government's refusal to acknowledge, worsens the crisis
Apoorva Sudhakar
Africa’s Stolen Future:Child abductions, lost innocence, and a glaring reflection of State failure in Nigeria
Anu Maria Joseph
South Africa: What is behind the pro-Zuma protests?
Abigail Miriam Fernandez
Impending famine in Tigray, should make Ethiopia everyone's problem
Anu Maria Joseph
Too late and too little is Ethiopia's international problem
Sankalp Gurjar
Africa's Ethiopia Problem
Apoorva Sudhakar
Ethiopia's Tigray problem is Tigray's Ethiopia problem
Mohamad Aseel Ummer
Migration in Africa: Origin, Drivers and Destinations
Apoorva Sudhakar
15 of the 23 global hunger hotspots are in Africa. Three reasons why
Apoorva Sudhakar