Photo : Pius Utomi Ekpei, AFP
NIAS Area Studies
AFRICA MONITOR
Photo : Pius Utomi Ekpei, AFP
IN BRIEF
by Ryan Marcus
South Sudan: President Kiir to contest in presidential election
On 5 July, Al Jazeera reported that President Salva Kiir announced that the delayed election is scheduled for 2024 with him as a contestor. President Kiir is expected to contest against his rival, first Vice President Reik Machar. President Kiir expressed his gratitude for endorsements and support for his party. The opposition has accused the government of delaying the elections. President Kiir stated that he is committed to free and fair elections. ("South Sudan’s Kiir to run in first-ever presidential election," Al Jazeera, 5 June 2023)
Nigeria: Chinese navy offers protections
On 5 July, BBC reported that the Chinese naval visit at Lagos was aimed to improve security in waters of West Africa and West Africa. Officials stated that the Chinese Navy aimed at offering security from piracy and oil theft. The Nigerian ambassador stated that the Nigerian navy can benefit from the Chinese partners with exchange of technology and experience. Nigeria is a major oil supplier to China and a Chinese company built the deep sea port costing USD one Billion in Lagos.("China navy wants to protect dangerous seas off Nigeria," BBC, 5 July 2023)
Tunisia: sub-Subaharan Migrants attacked
On 5 July, BBC reported that migrants from sub-Saharan Africa have been assaulted in Sfax, Tunisia. The violence was caused due to the killing of a Tunisian man. An NGO stated that some migrants were thrown off balconies. Additionally, it stated that women and children were targeted. Witnesses stated that assaults on migrants have forced them to seek refuge in the European Union.("Migrants attacked in Tunisia and 'thrown off balconies'," BBC, 5 July 2023)