Photo : AFP
NIAS Area Studies
AFRICA MONITOR
Photo : AFP
IN BRIEF
by Jerry Franklin, Ryan Marcus, Sneha Surendran, Nithyashree RB and Prearana P
Eastern Africa Bloc considers Sudan troop deployment
On 10 July, Al Jazeera reported that Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) called for a regional summit to deploy troops into Sudan to protect civilians. The IGAD consists of eight countries from the Horn of Africa. It expressed regret over the absence of the Sudanese delegation. The IGAD stated that it considered the deployment of Eastern Africa Standby Forces (ESAF). ("Regional bloc calls for summit to consider Sudan troop deployment," Al Jazeera, 10 July 2023)
Uganda: HRW states oil pipeline devastated livelihoods
On 10 July, Al Jazeera reported that the Human Rights Watch stated that the oil pipeline to Uganda had devastated lives. HRW additionally stated that TotalEnergies has a 62 per cent stake and will add emissions that exacerbate climate change. TotalEnergies has rejected the HRW's accusations, stating that it respects the rights of its people. The pipeline is scheduled for completion in 2025. ("Uganda oil pipeline has ‘devastated’ livelihoods, says HRW," Al Jazeera, 10 July 2023)
Nigeria: President Tinubu appointed as West Africa bloc chief
On 10 July, Nigerian President Tinubu was appointed as ECOWAS's new chairman. President Tinubu has called for swift action against insecurity and coups in Guinea-Bissau. He has pledged to prioritise political stability, peace and security, and regional economy. Tinubu is expected to have a one-year tenure. ("Nigeria’s President Tinubu chosen as new West Africa bloc chief," Al Jazeera, 10 July 2023)