Photo : Zohra Bensemra, Reuters
NIAS Area Studies
AFRICA MONITOR
Photo : Zohra Bensemra, Reuters
IN BRIEF
by Jerry Franklin, Ryan Marcus, Sneha Surendran, Nithyashree RB and Prearana P
Sudan: RSF rejects West Darfur violence accusations, receive sanctions from Britain
On 12 July, the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) and its allies denied any role in violence in the West Darfur region. The Human Rights Watch alleged that RSF had killed 28 members of the Masalit tribe and dozens of civilians. The RSF have stated that the killings were a part of an ongoing civil war between the local tribes and the Masalit tribes, and that they have no base in Misterei. The HRW have documented numerous abuses within the region which have led to investigations to establish the cause of violence. Additionally, Britain has announced sanctions on firms linked with the rival military groups in Sudan. ("Sudan's RSF denies involvement in West Darfur violence," BBC, 12 July 2023)
Kenya: President Raisi signs agreement on visit
On 12 July, Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi visited Kenya as a part of his diplomatic Africa tour. President Raisi and Kenyan President Ruto signed five memorandums related to information technology, fisheries, livestock products, and investment promotion. President Ruto stated that he sought Iran's commitment to export more Kenyan tea, meat, and other agricultural products. The Iranian foreign ministry stated that it expects an increase of more than USD two billion with African countries. ("Iran’s Raisi begins Africa trip, signs agreements with Kenya," Al Jazeera, 12 July 2023)
Kenya: protesters tear-gassed for demonstrations against tax hikes
On 12 July, the second round of demonstrations called by the main opposition leader Raila Odinga against tax hikes, was met with police clamping down. The police fired tear gas to disperse the protesters in Nairobi, Mombasa, and other cities. More than six people were killed during the protests against the taxes. The opposition stated that the tax hikes will worsen the suffering of Kenyans. ("Kenyan police tear-gas protesters in latest row over tax hikes," Al Jazeera, 12 July 2023)